Promoting sports for the differently-abled
The Special Olympics is an event that gives differently-abled people a chance to showcase their sporting skills. It’s an international event, held at various countries, including India. Dr Timothy Shriver, chairman of Special Olympics International, recently visited India to witness the accomplishment of Special Olympics programs carried out for people with intellectual disabilities by Special Olympics Bharat.
During his three-day trip, he met athletes, coaches, state area directors, family members and youth leaders and enlightened them with the significance of Special Olympics’ Global Strategy and the need to create a Unified Generation. He even met World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) champion Jinder Mahal and Singh Bros. as WWE has always promoted Special Olympics’ message. It was also announced that Delhi Dynamos FC has collaborated in unified activities with Special Olympics Bharat athletes. Dr. Shriver said, “Special Olympics Bharat is big but it has scope to get bigger. Millions more have to join. We have to grow in quality and with a message to the world that we will not stop.” Air Marshal Denzil Keelor, founder & CEO of Special Olympics Bharat, said, “We are all very proud and honoured by Dr Timothy Shriver’s visit to India. This is the second time he is visiting us, last being in 2006.” He adds, “It is through these meetings that the recognition of Special Olympics Bharat as a National Federation for the development of sports for persons with intellectual disabilities in the Priority Category emerged, creating a historical milestone for us.”