Our special Olympians

THREE very talented local girls are off to represent Australia at the Special Olympics, held in China in October this year.

28 year old Narelle Roberts of Dapto, 28 year old Lisa Keen of Mt Warrigal and 22 year old Megan Newell of Mt Warrigal are all very excited to attend the games.

Narelle and Lisa both play basketball while Megan is set to compete in swimming.

The Special Olympics are one of the biggest events in the world, outside of the Olympics, with over 10 000 athletes set to compete from 170 countries.

To qualify athletes must have an intellectual disability.

For Lisa this will be her first time representing Australia overseas.

She said she is nervous but definitely looking forward to the trip.

"To represent your country is the biggest thing you can do," she said.

Megan is almost considered a veteran, having represented her country in swimming for a number of years.

The talented swimmer is set to compete in the 100 metre breaststroke, 100 metre individual medley and 4x100 medley relay in breaststroke.

The trio are all looking forward to seeing what China has to offer. They are hopeful of getting some time to sightsee in between their competition schedule.

Lisa said she is looking forward to experiencing the culture while Narelle said is excited to sample the cuisine in China.

Member for Throsby Jennie George wished the girls all the best while in China and congratulated them on their selection into the Australian team.

Most of the trip is to be self funded by the girls and their families. Very little sponsorship is available to help the athletes out. It is estimated the trip will cost in excess of $3000 but according to Lisa it is money well spent.

"This is a once in a lifetime opportunity," she said.

We, at the Lake Times, wish Lisa, Narelle and Megan the best of luck in China.