Lawrie McMenemy, MBE gave an inspirational talk to pupils, parents, staff and friends of the school in his role as President of Special Olympics Great Britain in the Winchester school’s performing arts centre.
Special Olympics Great Britain is the country’s largest provider of year-round sports training and competition programmes for children and adults with learning disabilities and the audience were delighted that 3 Special Olympics GB athletes were also able to attend the event: Lizzie Williams, a rhythmic gymnast who is a member of the British Display Team and has travelled all over the world with them, Michael Kennet and Gary Price who both compete in sailing and athletics and went to the World games in Shanghai. They were accompanied by Chris Jones who is Regional Chair of Special Olympics Southern Region.
Lawrie McMenemy is most famously known as the manager of Southampton Football Club during their most successful period in history, guiding his team to FA Cup victory in 1976 against Manchester United. He is also a keen supporter of numerous charities and was appointed Chairman of Special Olympics Great Britain in 2004 and in December 2010, Lawrie became President of the Honorary Board of Special Olympics GB.
After the event, Chris Jones said “The Special Olympics South East Hampshire Group is very grateful to St Swithun’s and its PTA for the opportunity to join Lawrie McMenemy at this event and spread awareness about Special Olympics GB. We are also delighted with the donation of almost £400 made towards the work of the S.E Hampshire group.”