Big turnout for race with a difference

Abu Dhabi: About 180 competitors between the ages of six and 16, out of whom 110 were autistic, took part in a race for children with special needs organised by the Zayed Higher Organisation for Humanitarian Care and Special Needs at the Emirates Palace yesterday.

Nine private autism centers and 13 public schools participated.

"We seek every opportunity to integrate the autistic children into society and eliminate their fear. We also want to involve society in the event and foster awareness among them about people with special needs to help in their integration," Mohammad Al Hameli, secretary general and deputy chairman, said.

Participants came from every corner of Abu Dhabi emirate.

"The race involved four categories based on age. We chose from every school five children and one with autism. Each autistic child runs in a pair with a normal child. The race is taking place here in the Emirates Palace Garden for the children's safety," said Mohammad Mulukheya, a trainer at ADAC.

The children shared high levels of enthusiasm.

"Children are thrilled to take part in what has become a very important event in their lives," Aya Ameen, teacher at the Emirates Autism Centre (EAC), said.

Noticeable signs

Dr Tharaka Rani Sreekumar, psychologist at Al Ahlia Hospital, said autism is a spectrum disorder which is characterised by problems with social interaction and communication.

Autistic children don't mingle and they can have repetitive behaviour patterns. Parents usually notice signs when the speech is affected.

"This event will boost their confidence, open them to the world and develop their skills," said Khadij Ebrahim, a teacher at EAC.

"I will run 300 metres and will win," said 11-year-old Obaid Al Hamly, an Emirati.

"I will run 1,000 metres to win a prize," said Jordanian, Fathi Haitham, 14.

Sport teaches independence, but introducing the notion of competition to autistic children is not easy.

"It takes around a year to instill the concept of competing and winning. We start by individual training, then group sessions before having autistic children participate in competitive activities," said Mohammad Al Helw, a trainer at EAC.