There were handshakes, and even bearhugs, for President Mary McAleese as she greeted Ireland's recently returned athletes from the Special Olympics World Summer games in China at Áras an Uachtaráin yesterday afternoon.
At a reception to mark the achievements of Team Ireland in Shanghai, the President and her husband Dr Martin McAleese took the time to greet each of the athletes, their coaches and other supporters individually.
One participant, basketball player Louise Coleman from Waterford, gave Dr McAleese a warm bearhug, before offering the same to his wife. It was an invitation which Mrs McAleese was happy to accept.
Each of those present paused for photographs, with many bringing their own cameras to create their own memento of the occasion. At times, the assembled professional photographers were asked to do the honours.
In total, the 143 athletes from Team Ireland won 119 gold, silver and bronze medals in sports ranging from aquatics to golf, football to bowling.
In her speech, Mrs McAleese paid tribute to the athletes, and the almost 1,000-strong delegation of family, supporters and volunteers, who made up Team Ireland on its "Shanghai adventure".
"The spirit of Shanghai is still strong, isn't it?" she asked, to cheers of support. "You competed and you brought back great memories, and great medals . . . you've really put the Special Olympics on the map."
Diarmuid Loughlin, from Turner's Cross in Cork, won three gold medals in bowling. He said the competition was tough at times, and he was delighted with his achievements overall.
"I train every Thursday in Cork city," he said. "[Mrs McAleese] was very nice and friendly and she congratulated me. Her home is lovely."
Lesley Farmer, from Lisburn, won four medals for gymnastics: one gold, one silver, and two bronze. The trip to China was her first time abroad, and it has spurred her on to continue her athletic training.
Asked if she was nervous meeting the President, she replied: "I'm used to performing in front of thousands of people, so why should I be afraid of meeting the President?"
For Mary Davis, chief executive of Special Olympics Ireland, yesterday's reception marked the culmination of many years of hard work. The recognition afforded by the President "makes such a difference" to all those involved, she said.
But the work is far from over. Preparations for the next Special Olympics world games in Athens in four years' time will begin in earnest in the new year, she added with a smile.