THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS Ireland Games 2014 have drawn to a close in Limerick this evening.

The games, which took place over the weekend, saw over 1,500 athletes compete in a range of sports, with over 2,000 medals handed out.

More than 3,000 volunteers, 600 coaches and thousands of spectators supported the athletes in venues at the University of Limerick and in other venues around the city.

“The 2014 Games have been a resounding success,” Special Olympics Ireland CEO Matt English said.

“On behalf of the organisation, I would like to thank the athletes for their amazing endeavours over the course of the three days, as well as their families and supporters that turned out in such amazing numbers.”

He said the games are continuing to “grow from strength-to-strength”.

A selection process for which Irish athletes will travel to Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles will take place later this summer.