ALANNAH McKeown says wearing her green and gold uniform will be the highlight of representing her country at the Special Olympics Asia Pacific Games next month.
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To help get her there, Alannah’s fellow students from Belvoir Special School held a fundraiser yesterday, with a gold coin donation to wear her favourite colours.
The 17-year-old, who has Down syndrome, will represent Australia in the 25-metre freestyle, 25-metre backstroke and 50-metre relay.
“I’m most looking forward to wearing my new uniform and meeting new friends,” she said.
“This is my actual top I’m wearing today.”
Alannah said was also looking forward to travelling to Newcastle where the games will be held.
“I’ve never been to Newcastle before — it’s my first time,” she said.
Alannah had a special moment on Tuesday when she was chosen to light the flame of the Special Olympics Victoria cauldron on the steps of Melbourne Town Hall as part of a farewell ceremony for athletes.
Alannah’s teacher, senior unit co-ordinator Helen Goodacre, said the students had come up with the idea to hold a casual clothes day to support Alannah.
“I think the whole of Belvoir are behind her,” she said.
“It’s done wonders for her personally and her self-belief.”
