Run For Inclusion: Unity And Support For Special Athletes

New Delhi, Nov 9: New Delhi on Saturday (November 9) witnessed a grand gathering as over 7000 individuals from varied backgrounds and 150 educational institutions came together for the RUN FOR INCLUSION.

This event, spearheaded by Special Olympics Bharat (SOB), aimed to foster unity and support for special athletes. It served as a prelude to the much-anticipated Special Olympics Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling Competition, scheduled to start on November 18, 2024, at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex in New Delhi.

The run, which saw participation from more than 1000 special athletes, was a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together for a cause.

At the heart of this significant gathering was the message "Each One, Reach One," which reverberated through the Central Civil Service Ground, Chanakyapuri, where the event was held.

The involvement of more than 1000 special athletes alongside supporters from various walks of life highlighted the event's commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. The presence of notable personalities, including former cricketers Atul Wassan, Nikhil Chopra, and cricket coach Gursharan Singh, added to the event's prestige.

Leaders Laud the Initiative

Shri Harsh Malhotra, the Chief Guest and Hon'ble Minister of State for the Ministry of Corporate Affairs and Ministry of Road, Transport & Highways, commended the initiative.

He stated, "I extend my deepest gratitude to Special Olympics Bharat and Malika Nadda for this wonderful initiative, where we all run together to promote inclusivity, ensuring that our specially-abled children are given their rightful place within our society. This aligns perfectly with the vision of our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, for a 'Fit India' – a vision that will make our society healthier and stronger. I congratulate all the organizers of the 'Run for Inclusion'."

This sentiment was echoed by Dr Mallika Nadda, President of SO Bharat, who emphasized the significance of inclusion and the upcoming Asia Pacific Regional Games featuring Bocce and Bowling.

The RUN FOR INCLUSION is not just an isolated event but marks the commencement of a series of activities leading up to the Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling Competition. This competition is poised to be a landmark event, welcoming over 100 athletes from 12 countries.

It's noteworthy for being the first international competition of its kind hosted in India for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), particularly those aged 22 and above. Additionally, this occasion will see the introduction of bowling as a competitive sport for special athletes, in collaboration with the Tenpin Federation of India.

About Special Olympics Bharat

Special Olympics Bharat plays a pivotal role in India, as a National Sports Federation accredited by Special Olympics Inc. USA, it spearheads sports and development programs across the nation.

As part of a global movement, Special Olympics aims to combat discrimination and empower individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports, health, education, and leadership initiatives.

Recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, Special Olympics Bharat is dedicated to the development of sports for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.