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20/06/2003
Mandela arrives in Ireland for Special Olympics opening
Former South African President Nelson Mandela arrived in Ireland today in preparations for this weekend's opening of the Special Olympics World Summer Games.
As part of his stay in Ireland, Mandela will attend tomorrow's gala Opening Ceremony at Croke Park, Dublin which will include performances by U2, the Corrs and the largest Riverdance group ever assembled.
The Games, which are being held from June 21-29 has attracted over 7,000 athletes from over 150 countries who will be competing in 21 Olympic-type sports and three demonstration sports.
Among the other guests joining Mr Mandela at the opening will be boxing legend Muhammad Ali, Terminator actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Irish President Mary McAleese and Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver.
Northern Ireland comedian Patrick Kielty will be master of ceremonies.
It is the first time the games have ever been held outside the United States.
(MB)
As part of his stay in Ireland, Mandela will attend tomorrow's gala Opening Ceremony at Croke Park, Dublin which will include performances by U2, the Corrs and the largest Riverdance group ever assembled.
The Games, which are being held from June 21-29 has attracted over 7,000 athletes from over 150 countries who will be competing in 21 Olympic-type sports and three demonstration sports.
Among the other guests joining Mr Mandela at the opening will be boxing legend Muhammad Ali, Terminator actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Irish President Mary McAleese and Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver.
Northern Ireland comedian Patrick Kielty will be master of ceremonies.
It is the first time the games have ever been held outside the United States.
(MB)
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