Jim McDaid: Minister for Sports and Tourism

"The outstanding moment for me was in Sydney when I joined thousands of others, Australians as well as Irish, in cheering Sonia…

"The outstanding moment for me was in Sydney when I joined thousands of others, Australians as well as Irish, in cheering Sonia O'Sullivan on as she won her silver medal. I will never forget the roar when the crowd rose to their feet as Sonia came around the final bend on Szabo's heels. It was the day she really put Atlanta behind her.I was also thrilled by the superb performance of the Irish Paralympic team in Sydney, who brought home five gold medals, three silver and one bronze. Being a racing fan, the performances of Sinndar in the Irish Derbyand English Derby, followed by the win in what is the greatest race in Europe, the Prix de l'Arc, was special. The triple achievement was a well-deserved reward for John Oxx and Johnny Murtagh."