Beijing 2008 will be remembered for athletes that were at opposite ends of their Paralympic journeys. Michael McKillop and Jason Smyth burst onto the scene as they both won gold at their first games, both athletes would represent Ireland at three Paralympic Games to date and neither has ever lost at the Games. Gabriel Shelly competed at his last Paralympic Games and he went out in style thanks a a wonderful bronze medal in the men’s individual event in Boccia.

Darragh McDonald became the 4th Irish medal winner as he won silver in the pool in the 400m Freestyle.