And they’re off! SA Special Olympians to take on the nation

The Special Olympics South Australian team will take off for the National Games in Tasmania on Sunday, in what will be a record number of athletes, coaches and volunteers.

After months of training and dedication to their sport, 103 Special Olympic athletes and 37 volunteers will take part in nationwide tournament, which takes place from 17-21 October and will double as a selection event for the World Special Olympics in Berlin next year.

Special Olympics Australia is part of a global inclusion movement using sport, health, education and leadership programs every day around the world to end discrimination against and empower people with intellectual disabilities.

Changing the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities, the National Special Olympics will see athletes participate in swimming, athletics, basketball, bowling, football and tennis.

Special Olympics South Australia State Coordinator Matt Pearson said the athletes heading to Tasmania had been training for close to 12 months, beginning their journey this time last year at the South Australian State Games.

“Our athletes have trained for their specific sports for months and have dedicated themselves to the Special Olympics, and they’re thrilled to finally be representing South Australia,” Mr Pearson said.

“They have their uniforms, they’re packed and they’re ready to go – they couldn’t be more excited!

“Providing inclusive opportunities to develop physical fitness is important but giving our participants the chance to take part in national events and test their skills, meet new people, travel and experience the life of a professional athlete is an invaluable opportunity.”

More than 20,000 South Australians live with intellectual disability, but the vast majority of participants with an intellectual disability do not have regular inclusive access to sport.

Since August, the Law Enforcement Torch Relay (LETR) has also been travelling towards Tasmania, where the Flame of Hope will light the Special Olympics cauldron at the event in Launceston. The Flame of Hope symbolizes the shining light of inclusion, acceptance, and support in moving forward.