Headteacher pays tribute to Manx athlete

The headteacher of Ballakermeen High School has paid tribute to former pupil and Manx athlete Gareth Cowin

The 25-year-old died in South Korea earlier this week where he was competing for team Isle of Man at the Special Olympics Winter Games.

Gareth was described as a cheerful and popular boy at school who had developed into a fine sportsman.

She says he rose to meet some daunting challenges with determination and good humour.

It was announced yesterday that the organising committee in South Korea have re-named the event ‘Gareth's Games' in tribute to the Manxman.