African nations shine at Special Olympics Winter Games
TURIN, Italy (MNTV)- African nations made significant strides at this year’s Special Olympics World Winter Games, which concluded on Sunday, reports SABC News.
Senegal, who made their debut at the Games, competed with eight athletes.
South Africa sent a strong team of six athletes to participate in figure skating and short-track speed skating.
Namibia’s floorball team impressed with their progress on the world stage.
The enthusiastic participation and performance of special athletes from African nations marks an increasing understanding of the need in these regions to celebrate the potential of individuals with special needs and mental health struggles.
More than 1,500 athletes from 100 delegations competed in eight sports in an international demonstration of inclusion, acceptance and unity, reports the official website of the event.
Amid the success of African athletes, Jamaica also made its mark. Special Olympics Jamaica’s Nigel Davies shared his pride in their journey:
“They learned to roller-skate before, they taught them balance in their roller-skate, to the inline rollerblades. So that’s how they’ve come to be ice skaters.
I am proud of them, to see them go out and do their best, and get the gold, the silver and bronze.”
Special Olympics utilizes the transformative power of sports to foster inclusion and empower individuals with intellectual disabilities, providing training, competitions, and health screenings that build confidence, despite disabilities.