Killaloe Paralympian makes final preparations for London games

EXCITEMENT is building in Killaloe as a local swimmer makes his final preparations for the  Paralympics, which start on August 29.
Jonathan McGrath, who trains six days a week, recently participated in a special training camp in Portugal before he heads to Paralympic village in London this Friday.
Speaking to The Clare Champion recently, 19-year-old Jonathan said he is looking forward to participating in the 400m freestyle event.
“It is a dream come true to participate in the Paralympics.
“Training is going very well and I feel way better than I did before previous world and European competitions. I know a few of the Irish swimmers who are competing in the Olympics so I can ask them what the pool is like,” he said.
Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Deputy Alan Kelly has extended best wishes to all the Mid-Western athletes on the Irish team, as they begin their journey to the Paralympic Games in London. 
Besides Jonathan, James McCarthy (Limerick) competes in the F57 class shot putt, while Sarah Caffrey (Clonlara) and Shane Ryan (Limerick) will compete in the rowing mixed, coxed four.
“Following on from the fantastic success of our boxers and showjumper at the Olympics, I believe it is extremely important that we all now continue our support for our Paralympians for the duration of the games. These are top-calibre athletes, who are at the peak of their abilities and who have dedicated the last few years of their lives to claiming a place in these games.
“The fact that the games may be viewed live on Setanta Sports who are the first ever Irish network to show live coverage of the games will lead to unprecedented attention for Irish Paralympic athletes,” he said.