Abu Dhabi, UAE, September 6, 2024: Special Olympics UAE launched a training camp in Al Ain in preparation for the Special Olympics Malta National Games 2024, which will be held from September 12 to 15, 2024. The UAE delegation to the Malta 2024 Games comprises 20 Special Olympics UAE athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities and 12 members from the coaching and administrative teams.
The training camp, held in Al Ain from September 6 to 10, will focus on five sports that the UAE delegation will compete in at the Malta Games, including swimming, table tennis, athletics, football, and bocce. The athletes were selected from various People of Determination clubs across the UAE, including the Dubai Club for People of Determination, Al-Thiqah Club for the Disabled, Abu Dhabi Club for People of Determination, Al Ain Club under the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, and Khorfakkan Club for the Disabled. The camp is supported by several organizations, including the Integrated Transport Centre, United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), and Al Ain Club for People of Determination. It is sponsored by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi.
His Excellency Talal Al Hashimi, National Director, Special Olympics UAE, said: “We look forward to a successful and productive training camp in Al Ain, ensuring that our athletes are ready for the Malta Games 2024. Participation in international sports events and competitions is a key strategy for achieving our core goal of fostering inclusive integration for people of determination through sports. They help them open up to the world and interact with their peers,”
I would like to extend our thanks to the sponsors and supporters, especially the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, for their backing of this training camp. The collaboration of all involved is crucial for sustaining the achievements of our athletes, which have positioned the UAE as a global leader in empowering and integrating people with disabilities.” He concluded.
Saeed A. Al Dhaheri, Al Ain & Al Dhafra Regional Department Director, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi: “We are honored to welcome UAE’s athletes of determination at the Al Ain training camp as the delegation gears up for the Malta Games 2024. Their dedication to excelling in their sport is a source of inspiration, reinforcing our commitment to supporting people of determination across the UAE. Through our combined efforts and those of our partners, these talented athletes will receive access to suitable facilities to train and compete. We’re honoured to play a part in providing a platform that showcases their talent and determination to the world.”
Special Olympics UAE and Special Olympics Malta maintain close ties; Special Olympics UAE was previously invited to participate in the Malta Invitational Games 2022. Last year, Special Olympics UAE welcomed Malta’s First Lady, and President of Special Olympics Malta, Dr. Lydia Abela, to discuss mutual collaboration to enhance Special Olympics sports programs in both countries. Earlier in 2024, Special Olympics UAE hosted a delegation from Special Olympics Malta, including 15 athletes who participated in a joint training camp with UAE athletes in Al Ain.
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About Special Olympics UAE:
In October 2017, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced Special Olympics UAE as an independent organization dedicated to changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Her Highness Sheikha Maryam Bint Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was appointed as the Honorary President, and Her Excellency Shamma Bint Suhail Faris Al Mazrui as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees.
The organization aims to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through sports while providing them with leadership opportunities to help them display their talents and integrate them with mainstream society.
Special Olympics UAE has launched a variety of community programs, including those focused on families and young athletes. It has also introduced a number of initiatives to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to create a more inclusive society.
The Special Olympics of the UAE received international recognition from the International Special Olympics Foundation-USA in December 2017.
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