Special Olympics athletes from Ulster have brought back 229 medals from the Ireland Games, a record for the squad in the all-island competition.

Almost 100 athletes attended a homecoming event at Stormont on Thursday. Communities Minister Gordon Lyons welcomed them and said the ceremony was intended to recognise their hard work and achievements, and to promote inclusive sport.

Equestrian competitor Jenna Thevanau, who moved to Northern Ireland from South Africa, said she was proud, enjoyed meeting new people, and was pleased with her first competition result. She said having family there to support her eased her nerves.

Her sister, Candace Street, who works for Special Olympics, said the programme gives participants a sense of purpose. She highlighted the value of such opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities in Northern Ireland.

Other medallists included Claire O'Neill, 28, from Lisburn, who won silver and gold in badminton and described the competition as tough but rewarding. Eamonn Brummitt, from County Monaghan, earned gold and bronze in table tennis and said he hopes to be selected for the 2027 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Santiago, Chile.

Jackie Stewart, 48, from Downpatrick, won gold and silver in bocce and said she felt brilliant. Gymnast Adam Matchett, 18, from Belfast, placed fifth and said he was excited about the possibility of competing in next year's world games.

The Ireland Games take place every four years. This year's edition was the first since 2018 after a tournament was cancelled during the pandemic.