The Welsh Government and Disability Sport Wales are contributing £10,000 of funding each to enable a Welsh team to compete in the Special Olympics National Games in Sheffield this summer.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The event will take place from 7-12 August and is the country’s largest multi-sports event for athletes with intellectual disabilities. The funding will help towards the costs of sending a team from Wales to compete at the Games.
The Special Olympics National Games are held every four years and enable children and adults to compete at a national level. Around 2,600 athletes will come together from across the country to compete in 19 sports.
Minister for Social Services and Public Health, Rebecca Evans said:
“I am pleased to be able to provide this funding, which will enable around 200 Welsh athletes to compete at the Special Olympics National Games. Training for, and participating in, events such as this one, can offer enormous benefits – not only in terms of improving people’s health and wellbeing, but also in building self-confidence.”
Economy Secretary Ken Skates said:
“It’s vital that Wales is represented at National Games such as these, building on our rich sporting history and recent success stories.
"I’m delighted that Welsh Government funding has helped ensure a strong Welsh presence and look forward to us playing a big part in a successful Games.”
Pippa Britton, Chair, Disability Sport Wales said:
“I am delighted that Disability Sport Wales is once again able to support Special Olympics Team Wales to attend their National Games. This event is a pinnacle moment for any athlete, providing them with opportunities to compete and engage with competitors from across the UK.
“We are very proud of the efforts of the Team and have no doubt that they will represent Wales with great distinction when they take the stage later this summer.
“We wish them all the very best of luck.”
Jeff Savory Chair & Head of Delegation Special Olympics Wales said:
“We would like to thank Disability Sport Wales and The Welsh Government for their support to the Special Olympics Wales Team. The Special Olympics GB National Summer Games are the flagship event in the 4 year cycle of Special Olympics in GB.
"This event also is the qualifying event for the 2019 World Games which is to be held in Abu Dhabi. “I know that every athlete will do their best to bring the silverware HOME to Wales.”