Medals of honour

By Callan Date
ENDEAVOUR Hills resident Brian Sullivan is an Australian gold medallist.
The 19-year-old basketballer returned home from the Special Olympics World Games in Shanghai on Sunday proudly displaying his gold medal hanging around his neck.
Narre Warren local Mark Hutton and Hampton Park’s Jenni Ensor also came home victorious from the games – the duo also won gold in the basketball competition.
The three local athletes were part of a 130-strong Australian representative team that competed in the week-long Special Olympics event.
Mr Sullivan, who suffers from learning difficulties, said he was thrilled with the experience of representing his country and the game time he had during the basketball matches.
The sports-mad teenager hopes to compete at the next Special Olympics which will be held in Athens, Greece.
Proud mother Helen Sullivan said her son was absolutely rapt on the way home from the airport.
“Behind family, his sport would take preference over most things in life. He just loves it,” she said.
The 2007 World Games were Australia’s most successful to date with the team bringing home 49 gold, 50 silver and 27 bronze medals in a tremendous effort for all involved.
Australian athletes competed in 11 sports, including athletics, swimming and tennis against 169 other countries and regions.
Special Olympics Australia CEO Catriona Barry said she was delighted with the results and extremely proud of the Australian representatives.
“It is truly remarkable what these athletes have achieved,” she said.
“Not only have they succeeded on a global stage but they have done so with sportsmanship and humility and Australia should be extremely proud of their efforts,” Ms Barry said.
“The World Games provide a unique opportunity for all our athletes to show their strength and courage and it is clear they have all passed with flying colours.”