Special Olympics UAE Delegation Trains For Six Sports At Winter Games Turin 2025

A delegation from Special Olympics UAE has travelled to Uzbekistan for a training camp. This is in preparation for the Special Olympics Winter Games in Turin, scheduled for March 2025. The team comprises 10 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They will train intensively at Amirsoy Resort until 17th January.

The UAE athletes are set to compete in six different sports during the Turin Games. These sports include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, figure skating, alpine skiing, speed skating, and snowboarding. The selected athletes represent various clubs dedicated to people of determination throughout the UAE.

Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, stated that the international training camp aims to ensure athletes are fully prepared for the Winter Games in Turin. He expressed optimism about the athletes' participation marking a significant milestone in their sports journey. "The hope is that they will proudly represent the UAE and continue to champion inclusion," he said.

Hamel Al Qubaisi, Vice President of the UAE Winter Sports Federation, highlighted the ongoing partnership with Special Olympics UAE. "This partnership enhances community awareness and promotes the growth of winter sports across the UAE," he noted. He believes that the Uzbekistan training camp will significantly boost athletes' skills for meaningful participation at Turin 2025.

The training camp receives support from several organisations including the Ministry of Sports, UAE Winter Sports Federation, Emirates Centre for Sports Sciences and Sports Medicine, Majid Al Futtaim, Ski Dubai, and Snow Abu Dhabi. These entities play a crucial role in facilitating the development of winter sports talents among people of determination.

Al Hashemi extended gratitude to sponsors and supporters who contribute to this initiative. He acknowledged their role in helping athletes gain confidence and a broader global perspective through their participation in international events.

Al Qubaisi emphasised that these efforts align with promoting values such as ambition and dedication within the UAE community. He added that sports serve as a powerful platform for growth and inspiration among people of determination.

The delegation's involvement in this training camp reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity through sports. As preparations continue for Turin 2025, there is hope that these athletes will showcase their skills on an international stage while embodying the spirit of unity and perseverance.

With inputs from WAM