SVG represented at Special Olympics Head of Delegation Conference

In preparation for the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games, there was a Head of Delegation Conference in Los Angeles, California, from January 21 to January 26. The Games will be held later this year in Los Angeles from July 25 to August 2.{{more}}

The conference focused on athletes’ registration to sport and competition, venues, transportation, meals, Healthy Athletes programme and media.

Delegates had an opportunity to visit their host towns. St Vincent and the Grenadines is hosted by the City of Thousand Oaks. Janice McMaster, national director of Special Olympics SVG, represented the country at the conference and outlined the importance of the visit.

“This visit was very important, since we were absent from World Games for over 10 years. We are taking a large number of athletes to the Games, each with particular needs; so it was imperative that SVG had a firsthand view of the sporting facilities and venues, accommodation and transportation system.”

Over 170 countries and approximately 7,000 Special Olympics athletes are expected to attend the Special Olympics World Games. The Special Olympics SVG delegation comprises 33 individuals: 26 athletes, five coaches and two officials. Our athletes will compete in aquatics, athletics, bocce, football and tennis.

McMaster explained that the Special Olympics’ mission is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

“Our programme offers persons with an intellectual disability the opportunity to develop physical fitness, participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families and other Special Olympics athletes. The Head of Delegation meeting was a timely reminder of how important it is for SVG to be part of this wonderful inspirational global movement that promote acceptance and inclusion.”

Special Olympics SVG is still relying on businesses, clubs, community organizations and individuals to give generously to its ‘Take Us to the World’ fund-raising campaign. If you would like to support the drive to “Take Us to the World,” contact them at info@sosvg.org or 784-532-8525.