Birr family continue winter dip tradition in aid of Special Olympics

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Birr native father and son Paul and Eoin Hoare are keeping up the tradition of completing a winter dip in aid of the Special Olympics.

This is Paul's eleventh year to participate in the event, with 19-year-old Eoin is completing the dip alongside his dad for the fourth year in a row.

Last year's dip raised over €600 for the cause, with fundraising for this year's dip already reaching €460 from some 23 donations as of Thursday, December 4.

Sharing the reason behind the fundraiser, Paul said: “I have another son Billy who has Down Syndrome. He's not competing but I would know a lot of the people that are competing.

"Special Olympics Ireland provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community."

The money raised from the Winter Dip will go towards Special Olympics events, preparation, and any other costs that may arise.

"We have people competing in the Winter Olympics early next year both locally and nationally - so it all go towards making sure they have the funding," Paul said.

The Winter Dip will happen in Galway on Boxing Day, December 26.

The pair are also hosting a collection at Mulrooneys Gala Birr on Saturday, December 6.

To donate, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/winter-dip-for-special-olympics