Following their stunning performances at the 2015 Los Angeles Special Olympics World Games, athletes are training and practicing for what is the biggest series of events on the local Special Olympics calendar, the Special Olympics Barbados National Games. Barbadian sports fans will have the opportunity to see, in action, the athletes who won 8 gold, 5 silver and 4 bronze medals in the international competition involving 6,500 participants from 165 countries.
The action in athletics (track and field) begins on February 24 at the Carlton Cricket Club with the Special Olympics Barbados National Games Track and Field Preliminaries and culminates with the Special Olympics Barbados National Games Track and Field Finals at the Carlton Club on March 4. The Track and Field Finals are traditionally held during March, the Month of the Disabled. Barbados track and field athletes captured gold, silver and bronze medals at the World Games.
The Special Olympics Barbados National Games Aquatics Meet is scheduled for March 11 at the Aquatics Centre in Wildey. Barbados swimmers came away from the World Games with a gold medal and a 4th place relay finish.
National Games competitions in other sports disciplines will be held later in the year. The Special Olympics Barbados National Games Cricket Championship is set for April 22. TheSpecial Olympics National Games Football Championship is scheduled for September 30, featuring many of the members of the Barbados team which won a silver medal at the World Games. National Games events in bocce and golf will be held at dates to be determined.
All Special Olympics sports events are free of charge. The public is warmly welcome to attend and cheer on intellectually disabled athletes as they display their many accomplishments.
Ever heard the saying “it’s better to give than to receive” well that also applies to time. By volunteering we support an organization or cause and make a great difference in our communities. It’s also a great way to meet new people and learn about the challenges they face daily. Consider giving more than just money, give your time !
