A reception has been held at Government House for the island’s team who took part in the 2017 Special Olympics Winter Games in Austria.

The event, which was hosted by Lieutenant Governor Sir Richard Gozney and Lady Gozney, was attended by the team, along with their families and coaches.

The reception was also attended by President of Tynwald Stephen Rodan and Chief Minister Howard Quayle.

Team director Beryl Woodridge said afterwards: ‘I would like to thank the Governor for putting on the reception – it was very much appreciated.

‘It was also good to see the President of Tynwald, the Chief Minister and so many other government members there.

‘It makes the athletes feel their sporting achievements are just as important as everyone else’s.’

As we previously reported, the team had a successful 12-day trip competing in Austria for the Games in March.

The 4x100 metre snow shoe relay team, comprising Nicola Woodridge, Sean Roberts, Laura Oram and Paul Clucas, won a silver medal.

Nicola Woodridge also won a bronze medal in the women’s 200 metre individual race as well as coming fourth in the 100 metre race.

There were also good performances from Sean Roberts, who finished fourth in the men’s 100 metres and fifth in the 200 metres individual races, Paul Clucas, who came fifth in the individual 100 metres, and Laura Oram who was sixth in the women’s 100 metre race.

The Manx team also reached the quarter-finals of the floorball competition, narrowly losing 5-4 in an exciting match screened live on local TV.

For more about Special Olympics on the island visit www.specialolympicsiom.org or email [email protected]