Ireland's medal haul at this year's Special Olympic Games continues to creep higher, with the grand tally now standing at 15, including four golds.

Newstalk reporter Henry McKean is in Los Angeles, absorbing the atmosphere and reporting on one of 2015's most important sporting events. 

For the last few days he has been talking with organisers, competitors, coaches and celebrities about their experiences and what the Special Olympics means to them.

Henry speaks to Ireland international and LA Galaxy star Robbie Keane

Henry spoke to ESPN reporter Shane Denham, who compared the games with America's biggest sporting events:

"I've done a lot of football, World Series and basketball, but this is one of my favourite events."

Actor Colin Farrell - a long-time supporter of the Special Olympics - spoke passionately about how much it means for competitors to be part of the tournament:

"It's imperative that... every single member of society gets the opportunity to have a voice and to be fully realised members of the communal experience that is being a human being."

And speaking to the competitors, the level of excitement is clear:

"I was crying today that I scored a goal," said footballer Francis Pollardi. "I love it so much. Its the best opp I coyuld ever, ever get."

Listen to Henry's full report below: