McKillop reflects on Paralympic legacy

Published Tuesday, 11 September 2012
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UTV caught up with Paralympic double gold winner Michael McKillop as he arrived back in Northern Ireland from a marvellous London Games.

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The sprinter, who lifted the 1500m and 800m crowns, was given a hero's welcome by hundreds of supporters when he touched down in Dublin with Team Ireland.

Back at his home in Glengormley, McKillop - who was also named the athlete who best embodied the Paralympic spirit - reflected on his achievements.

"It made me feel very special and honoured," he said of the Whang, Youn Dai Achievement Award, which was presented to him at the spectacular closing ceremony.

"Because I was selected, not only the male out of the Ireland team to be nominated for the event, but to be nominated down to the last three and selected alongside the likes of Oscar Pistorius is something special.

"Then to go on and win the award and be honoured with the most spirited athlete in the Paralympic Games, it just shows that not only are my achievements looked at highly, but that I have achieved outside of Paralympic sport in promoting to able-bodied kids across the nation. I think that me doing that has helped the legacy of London 2012 move on."

There were scenes of joy as Irish Paralympians returned to Dublin with their glittering medal haul on Monday evening.

Londonderry sprinter Jason Smyth clutched his two golds as he walked through a euphoric arrivals hall, surrounded by a 500-strong crowd who cried and cheered.

"I have come back and I have achieved what I went out to achieve, the double gold," said the 25-year-old who triumphed in the 100m and 200m races.

With his attention already turning to the next Games, Jason added: "I did everything that was expected of me - now I'm looking forward to Rio."

Team Ireland had one of its best Paralympic Games ever in 2012, finishing 19th out of 166 countries by claiming a total of eight gold, three silver and five bronze medals.

The Republic of Ireland's Sport Minister, Michael Ring, described the athletes as great ambassadors for their country.

"Tonight it's a great night for Ireland, it's a great night for Team Ireland," he said. "We're very proud of the whole team for what they delivered for Ireland."

A Government reception will be staged for the athletes in Farmleigh on Friday.

© UTV News
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