Abu Dhabi: A ‘Host Town Programme’ has been launched ahead of the Special Olympics IX Mena Games 2018 and Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 on Wednesday.
The programme, across all seven emirates of the UAE, is an initiative organised by the LOC of Special Olympics Abu Dhabi and aims to enhance ties with both private and government entities to promote awareness about people of determination and encourage their inclusion into everyday society.
Though the ‘Host Town Programme’ has been a part of the Special Olympics World Games, it will be the first time it is introduced in the regional Mena Games.
“The real magic and the impact is community engagement. It is about connecting athletes. We are a sports movement but it is all about the people. There is no powerful example of bringing people together than the ‘Host Town Programme’,” said Peter Wheeler, CEO Special Olympics Abu Dhabi 2019.
“This will be the largest ‘Host Town Programme’ organised by any country. To introduce it for the first time in the history of Regional Games is huge. It will set us for a wonderful journey not just in Abu Dhabi but through the seven Emirates. It will bring people with determination into the lives of every citizen and residents nation wide,” added Wheeler.
The programme will host delegations of athletes, their coaches and families, and allow them to experience the rich culture and history of the UAE ahead of their participation in Special Olympics IX Mena Games, which will take place from March 14 to 21 and Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.
The Host Town Programme will also include visits to tourist sites across the seven emirates of the UAE in addition to providing workshops and speaker opportunities for athletes to share their stories with students.
Hessa Bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development, said it is a great opportunity to host the world’s ‘largest humanitarian sports event’ in Abu Dhabi.
“This reflects our values and efforts to promote the integration of people of determination into the community and is a reflection of the UAE’s efforts to support global trends addressing the difficulties they face in their lives. We hope to change perceptions of people of determination and show that they can excel in many aspects of life through sports,” said Essa Buhumaid.
Over 1,200 athletes of all abilities will descend upon Abu Dhabi from March 14-21 this year to take part in Special Olympics IX Mena Games 2018. Athletes will participate in 16 sports, which will be hosted in eight different venues including ADNEC, Zayed Sports City, Yas Marina Circuit, NYUAD, Officer’s Club, Mubadala IPC Arena, Al Jazira Sports Club and Al Forsan Club.
