Let me win, but if I cannot win…let me be brave in the attempt,” is the oath of the 690 athletes participating in National Games for Track & Field Special Olympics.
The Games, which were launched last Friday, brought together 17 schools and centres whose athletes embody an impressive resolve to overcome and emulate a spirit of sport and camaraderie.
“For almost four decades, Special Olympics Barbados has worked to empower intellectually challenged children and adults to excel and reach their fullest potential by striving for acceptance and inclusion in larger society,” said Hon. Steven Blackett, Minister of Social Care, Constituency Empowerment & Community Development as he delivered opening remarks at the Carlton Sports Club.
These views were echoed by the National Director for Special Olympics Victor Chapman who has been impressed by the consistently high level of sportsmanship.
“We have some very, very good athletes participating. Without this forum they would not have an opportunity to prove to themselves and the public, what they are capable of.” He added, “These games give each of them an opportunity to compete and excel at their level. They look forward to these Games and which are a climax to their year round training.”
The Olympic spirit extends beyond the field and encompasses those businesses that quietly and consistently support the Games and in so doing have fostered a palpable spirit of pride and achievement amongst the athletes.
“These athletes and their families are our customers, and we believe it is necessary to support initiatives that are important to those who are important to us,” said Dwayne Worrell, LPG Sales Executive at Sol Barbados.
“For many years we have been a part of Special Olympics as there is a special place in our hearts for persons with disabilities. Today we commit to continuing our support of this event and have provided Sol Gas which will keep the Olympic Flame burning and other prizes for the athletes who participate.”
The 2015 Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles saw a contingent of 26 athletes from Barbados bring home 8 gold, 5, silver, and 4 bronze medals. For such a small country, Barbados has done impressively on the world stage and with continued support for the spirit of inclusion and sharing of gifts will continue to shine brightly into the future.
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