Athletes, families, volunteers and supporters of the Down Special Olympics Club came together recently at the Ballymote Centre to celebrate a year of achievement, friendship and sporting success at the Down Special Olympics Club annual awards night, proudly supported by Phoenix Energy.
The event recognised the dedication and determination of club members who continue to excel both on and off the field, while also providing an opportunity to reflect on the positive impact the club has had on the lives of people with learning disabilities across County Down since its establishment almost two decades ago.
Representing Phoenix Energy at the event was Jonathan Martindale, who joined members in celebrating another successful year and congratulating athletes on their accomplishments. As a long-standing supporter of the club, Phoenix Energy was thanked by members, families and volunteers for its continued sponsorship and commitment to helping the organisation grow.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of athletes who represented Team Ulster at last month's Special Olympics Ireland Games. Among those celebrated was Jackie Stewart, who delivered an outstanding performance to secure both a gold and silver medal in bocce, bringing great pride to the club and the wider community.
Founded in 2007 by Frank Donnelly, the Down Special Olympics Club was established to create opportunities for people with learning disabilities to participate in sport, build confidence, develop new skills and form lasting friendships. Today, the club continues to provide coaching and training in sports including bocce, golf and football, while fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for athletes of all abilities.
Jonathan Martindale, Director of Business Development at Phoenix Energy, said:
"The Down Special Olympics Club is about so much more than sport. It creates opportunities, builds confidence and brings people together in a way that has a lasting impact on athletes and their families. Phoenix Energy is proud to support the club, and it was a privilege to join everyone in celebrating another fantastic year of achievement. Congratulations to all of the athletes, particularly those who represented Team Ulster so successfully at the Special Olympics Ireland Games."
Frank Donnelly, Chairman of the Down Special Olympics Club, added:
"When the club was established in 2007, the aim was to create a place where people could enjoy sport, develop their abilities and feel part of a supportive community. Seeing what the club has become, and the success our athletes continue to achieve, is incredibly rewarding. The dedication shown by the athletes, coaches, volunteers and families is truly inspiring, and I am delighted to see the club continuing to go from strength to strength."
The evening concluded with the presentation of awards to athletes and volunteers, marking another memorable chapter in the club's proud history of inclusive sport.
Pictured from left: Martin English, Naomi McMullan, Jonathan Martindale (Phoenix Energy), Frank Donnelly (chairman) and Garry Faughey. Photograph courtesy of the Mourne Observer.