Clare success in Massachusetts Special Olympics

John Dunleavy, 18, son of Doolin man Gerry, won a gold medal in a swimming event at this past weekend’s Special Olympics, held on the Harvard University campus. He took a moment to pose with his medal and his family after the event. Pic courtesy of the Winchester Star newspaper.

This week as students of Winchester High School in the US State of Massachusetts looked forward to their summer break, 18 year old John Dunleavy wore a gold medal around his neck as he addressed his fellow pupils during morning announcements.

‘Thank you for coming out and supporting me,’” Dunleavy said Tuesday. “I hope to win one again next year.’” Dunleavy, the son of Doolin native Gerry, earned his gold medal by winning the 25-meter freestyle swimming event at this past weekend’s Massachusetts Special Olympics, held on the Harvard University campus.

A competitor on many levels — from Tae Kwon Do to the academic arena — Dunleavy started training for the event months ago. His father, Gerry, said his son may compete in a national Special Olympics tournament, and possibly the organization’s world games, over the next year. Gerry Dunleavy moved to Winchester from his birthplace of Doolin some years ago. He and his wife Toni, who hails from Dublin, have four children — two boys and two girls.

For the full story see the Winchester Star

19th NI swine flu case is confirmed

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The latest case, the 19th, is a man who recently returned from London. He has been given anti-virals and is recovering at home.

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