Opening ceremony delight for Lucy

Lucy 21, took part in the prestigious opening ceremony on Tuesday, before she will showcase her skills as she competes against international athletes across three disciplines - Super G, Slalom and Giant Slalom.

Writing on her blog on www.specialolympics.ie, Lucy’s mum Joanne said: “We have just experienced a very emotional few days.

“Firstly on Thursday, Lucy took part in the Law Enforcement Torch Run in Lisburn. This involved her carrying the torch into St. Patrick’s Academy with the Torch Run Team.

“7am Friday dawned and a very excited but nervous Lucy awoke. We collected her coach Jill in Lurgan and on we went to Dublin airport. We arrived to a sea of green athletes, banners, photographers, television press people, and big furry microphones. It was all there. After many photos, television interviews, etc. the parents went upstairs to wait for the team to say their final goodbye. A very tearful Lucy and I exchanged the biggest hug of our lives and through the gate they went!

“Since then, we have heard that they have all arrived safely and are getting adjusted to the time difference in Korea of 9 hours. We ourselves leave on Monday morning to catch up with them.

“Good Luck to Lucy and the entire Ireland Team!”