Katie Meade from Des Moines, Iowa will introduce U2’s performance at the opening ceremony for the Special Olympics tomorrow. Katie is an athlete participating in the events of swimming and gymnastics, as well as an international global messenger for the Special Olympics. In her role as a global messenger, Katie hopes to break down barriers that keep people from participating in Special Olympics by educating the public on the benefits of participating in Special Olympics.

Below is the schedule for the Opening Ceremony, courtesy of the Special Olympics.

‘A Dash of Colour’
The Parade of Athletes
President of Ireland, Mary McAleese
The Corrs
The Special Olympics Flag
Denis O’Brien, GOC Chairman (to be introduced by Rita Lawlor [see photos of Bono and Rita in March 2003])
‘Solstice’
Special Olympics Oath Ceremony
The Athletes’ Song
‘The Ball’ (performed by The Blue Teapot Theatre Company and Macnas)
Dance Party (performed by Samantha Mumba and Ronan Keating)
Riverdance
The Taoiseach, Mr. Bertie Ahern TD
The Founders Address
U2
Nelson Mandela
Lighting the Flame of Hope