Special Olympics
GOLDEN girl Zoe Irving is bringing a gold medal home to Langholm from the World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi.
Zoe’s achievement is even more momentous, it being the first time a competitor from Dumfries and Galloway has won a medal at the Special Olympics.
Her team-mate Tammara McIlwean of Annan won bronze in the 400m walk.
Zoe competed in the bocce female singles and among the spectators were her parents Pauline and Douglas.
Pauline said: “She played in the 16 to 21 age group. They had a divisioning day and she did really well.
“The women’s competition was on Sunday and Monday. Most of the women’s groups were made up of three people.
“Both of Zoe’s opponents were from Costa Rica. She won her first match 12-6 and lost her next match 6-4.
All three women won one and lost one but because Zoe had such a good win in her first match, she won the gold.”
Zoe said: “I am over the moon with my gold medal and thanks to everyone for their support. I would also like to give a special thanks to Ling Mann, my coach, and David Carlin, my team-mate.”
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