Padraig Harrington hosts golf master class for GB Special Olympics athletes

Three-time major winner Padraig Harrington hosted a golf master class for Special Olympics Great Britain athletes prior to the start of the Scottish Open

Three-time major winner Padraig Harrington hosted a golf master class for Special Olympics Great Britain athletes prior to the start of the Scottish Open.

Special Olympics Great Britain athletes had the chance to enjoy a golf master class from three-time major winner and Special Olympics Global Ambassador Padraig Harrington at Royal Aberdeen ahead of the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open. 

The athletes Alistair Robertson, David Mitchell, Alistair Hay, Claire Jeffray, Aidan Harrison and Steven Thornton were all put through their paces by the Irish golfing great.

One of the athletes, David Mitchell, was given the honour two years ago of presenting Harrington with the special accolade of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver Commemorative Special Olympics Silver Coin.

The Coin was awarded to the famous Irish golfer by the global Special Olympics family in recognition of his dedication and tireless commitment to Special Olympics athletes and their families.

Since becoming a Special Olympics Global Ambassador in May 2010, Harrington has generously donated his time and expertise to the Special Olympics Movement across the world by conducting golf clinics for athletes and coaches.

Karen Wallin, Special Olympics GB CEO, said, "We were thrilled that Padraig once again has generously given up his time to pass on his expert tips and advice to our golfing athletes.

This is an experience they will never forget and we are truly grateful."

Padraig Harrington commented: “The work that I do for the athletes of Special Olympics is something I am proud of and I will continue to try to help and inspire them to be the best athletes they can be.

“I am just happy to be able to play a part in the organisation which changes lives every day for people with intellectual disabilities.”

Special Olympics GB (SOGB) is the largest organisation providing year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities (also known as learning disabilities) across the country.

The programme aims to transforms the lives of people with intellectual disabilities and their families through the power of sport.

There are almost 1.2 million people with intellectual disabilities in Great Britain.

The year-round sports coaching and events provided by Special Olympics positively changes the quality of life for athletes and their families and communities.