The Ulster Unionist Party’s sports spokesperson Robin Swann MLA has called on everyone to support all of Northern Ireland’s Olympians at the London 2012 Games.
Mr Swann, who represents North Antrim, said:
‘A great deal of media attention has rightly focussed on the three Northern Ireland rowers who have genuine Gold medal hopes at the Olympics.
Today the Prime Minister himself has visited the Bann Rowing Club in Coleraine where Alan Campbell and the Chambers brothers Richard and Peter, first trained.
I have no doubt that the whole of Northern Ireland will be glued to tv screens on Thursday in the case of the Chambers brothers, and Friday in the case of Alan Campbell, and we all hope to cheer them on to Olympic Gold.
Having highlighted our local rowers, we must also congratulate all the local athletes who have qualified for the Olympics and wish them every success in their chosen sports.
One of the five promises which formed part of the London 2012 Olympic Bid was that the Games would “Inspire a generation of young people to take part in local volunteering, cultural, and physical activity.” This is of crucial importance to the health and well-being of the Nation and it is heartening to see the interest in the Games which has already been demonstrated.
In addition to fostering a love of sport, the success of local Olympians can only serve to encourage and inspire our young people, and demonstrate to them the rewards that come with talent, hard work and dedication.”
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