Abu Dhabi Inclusion Run Celebrates Community And Respect With Over 1000 Participants

The "Abu Dhabi Inclusion Run," organized by Special Olympics UAE and Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), marked the fifth anniversary of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019. This event, aimed at promoting inclusion and respect for individuals with different abilities, saw participation from over 1000 individuals, including officials, members of People of Determination clubs and centres, various partners and supporters, and families and friends of People of Determination. The races, spanning 1.5km and 3km, took place at the Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub.

Arif Al Awani, Secretary-General of ADSC, expressed his satisfaction with the community's enthusiastic participation in the event. He highlighted the significant impact of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 on increasing support for and participation of People of Determination in sports activities. Al Awani also noted the commitment of the UAE's leadership to the development and welfare of People of Determination, whose achievements have been a source of pride.

The Abu Dhabi 2019 World Games have had a lasting impact on People of Determination with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various sectors including education, well-being, sports, arts, youth, and leadership. The introduction of the Abu Dhabi Strategy for People of Determination 2020-2024 followed the Games. This strategy involved 28 entities and institutions and aimed to create an inclusive environment for People of Determination in Abu Dhabi.

Talal Al Hashemi, National Director of Special Olympics UAE, shared his delight at the strong participation in the Inclusion Run. He viewed this as a reflection of a positive societal shift towards inclusion since the World Games Abu Dhabi 2019. Al Hashemi praised the achievements of UAE athletes over the past five years, including their success in local, regional, and international competitions. He emphasized that these achievements were a result of collaborative efforts from all partners.

Al Hashemi reaffirmed the commitment to building on the legacy of the World Games by promoting unified sports and expanding initiatives through collaboration with various partners. He expressed hope for UAE athletes to continue leading in inclusion and empowerment on a global scale.

The Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 hosted over 7,500 athletes from 195 countries and was celebrated as the best in Special Olympics International's 50-year history. It left behind a vibrant legacy that continues to inspire change and affirm everyone's right to participate in the UAE's progress.

Looking ahead, Special Olympics UAE athletes are set to participate in the World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, from 8th to 16th March 2025. This event will feature over 2,500 male and female athletes from around the world competing in various disciplines.

With inputs from WAM