Ireland's team at the Special Olympics joined competitors from around the world as the Games were officially opened in Berlin last night.
Athletes from 187 nations paraded in the Olympic Stadium - with Ireland's 73 strong team were joined by Maria Shriver - the daughter of Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver.
Chairman of Special Olympics Tim Shriver said the Berlin stadium last hosted the Olympic torch in 1936 in a games dominated by an oppressive and mean-spirited regime, but now it welcomes a new games of dignity and inclusion.
Special Olympics Ireland CEO Matt English said the World Games' opening was fantastic and unforgettable.
"One of the magic moments was when Team Ireland met all their families - with over 500 family members cheering them on, they were the loudest cheers of the evening," Mr English said.
"Bring on the games," he added.
Ireland's athletes will compete in Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Equestrian, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Kayaking, Swimming and Table Tennis.
For some it will be their first games, while for others it will be another chance to represent Ireland at what is billed as the biggest sporting event for people with an intellectual disability in the world.
The first day of the games saw Jennifer O'Halloran compete in various rhythmic Gymnastics disciples including Level 2 rope, ribbon and hoop.
Jennifer has been active in rhythmic gymnastics for four years, with a one-year break due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Annalena Morris, Marketing and Communications Manager with Special Olympics Ireland, said that for some athletes, the games represent their first time away from home or out of the country.
Although the next few days are just about practice, getting a feel for the arenas and getting used to the crowds, the competitive games will bring a bit more seriousness later in the week.
In terms of medals, she said that Irish athletes experienced a decent medal haul in Abu Dhabi for the last world games and they hope to see it again and bring medals home.
Speaking on RTÉ's This Week, Ms Morris said that there are over 60 volunteers from Ireland that travelled over to offer support.
"There is just a sea of green everywhere, you can't go anywhere without someone shouting up Ireland or giving an Olé Olé. We’re everywhere and it’s wonderful to see," she said.
