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On 19th April, I’ll begin a 30‑day challenge close to my heart: swimming 1 mile (64 lengths) every day, finishing on 16th May with the Mayor’s 3km River Foyle Open Water Challenge. I’m doing this to support Special Olympics athletes, clubs, and programmes that have shaped my life for more than two decades.
Why This Challenge Matters So Much to Me
My Special Olympics journey began 20 years ago when Swim Ulster legend Frank Stephens asked me to help at the Special Olympics Ireland Games 2006 in the Queen’s PEC. I had no idea that single moment would change my life.
Since then, I’ve had the honour of:
- Helping establish multiple Special Olympics clubs
- Managing Advancment competitions
- Coach Tutoring for over five years & becoming a Coach Developer recently
- Coaching Team Ulster at previous Ireland Games
- Volunteering at the 2017 World Games in LA
- Being part of the Ireland Swimming Coaching Team at the 2023 World Games in Berlin
But most importantly:
I get to coach & spend time with the incredible athletes every Friday, Saturday & Sunday across various sports.
Those sessions — the effort, the progress, the joy — are the heartbeat of why I do what I do. They’re the reason this challenge matters so deeply.
The friendships, pride, and unforgettable memories built over 20+ years are impossible to measure.
Supporting Athletes in 2026
Our home club, Oakleaf Lions has reached an amazing milestone:
Four athletes have been selected for the Special Olympics Ireland Games in Dublin in June
Athletics:
Aoibheann
Ella
Chaperone: Jane
Swimming:
Bobby
Michael
Chaperone: Dermott
It costs around £500 to send each athlete/chaperone to the Games. Every donation helps give them a life‑changing opportunity.
Supporting Local Clubs
A portion of the funds raised will also support:
Titanic Tigers — a club I helped found & still involved in regulalry
Lagan Lappers — a club I helped re‑established last year, where I help coach when i can.
Eager Believers — an inspiring Belfast club founded by brilliant young leaders who have completed courses i have tutored.
These clubs run outstanding programmes that mean the world to their athletes & families
Join Me
Training is already underway — and if you want to join me for a swim any day during the challenge, you’re more than welcome. Free coaching included!
❤️ Every Donation Helps
Your support will go directly toward:
Athletes attending the 2026 Games
Local Special Olympics clubs
Programmes that create life‑changing experiences
Thank you so much for your generosity. It truly means the world — to me, and to every athlete you’re helping.