Special Olympics: Gibraltarian athletes head for Euro Youth Games, in Rome.
“Get Ready To Play” is the motto for the Special Olympics European Youth Games which will take place in the Eternal City, Rome, Italy, from September 30th-5th October 2006. This will be the first time that a Special Olympics event is focused on young people between the ages of 12 and 21.
The aim of the Youth Games is to encourage young people with and without intellectual disabilities to break down barriers and forge new friendships to help build a more welcoming and inclusive society.
“Many young people with intellectual disabilities will grow up in relative isolation, excluded from their peer group. The Special Olympics European youth Games will promote a message of welcome and inclusion among young people with and without disabilities, transforming difference into acceptance, mutual respect and friendship”, said Michael Smith of Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia.
Taking part away from home for the first time are Special Olympics Gibraltar athletes, Dorrian Zammitt and Douglas Pitaluga. Our two swimmers are pictured with Lawrence Podesta of Lombard Odier Darier Hentch, who, under the sponsor an athlete scheme, have supported the lads with a cheque for £1.200 which will help defray the expenses of the trip.
them are their coaches John and AnaMarie Golding with National director Annie Risso. The boy’s parents will be among those from 57 National Programmes who will be there to support them.
Special Olympics, founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver continues, through the common language of sport to encourage young people with intellectual disabilities to break down barriers and improve the individual’s health, self esteem and social integration.
This is an exciting time for Dorrian and Douglas and as they leave Gibraltar on Wednesday 27th September, all our good wishes for a happy enjoyable time go with you.
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