Athletes immersed in training for Special Olympics

Over the past few months a group of dedicated athletes have been training six days a week to prepare themselves for the upcoming Special Olympics World Summer Games to be held in China next month.

Kristian Gregory is one of the seven-strong aquatic team and has been participating for several years. "I always liked swimming. Apart from helping me feel healthy and keep fit, I enjoy the competition... It's all about having fun and enjoying it," he says as he takes a brief break from his swimming routine.

In the background his team mates are heard splashing as they practice various swimming styles to the sound of the whistle, held by trainer Angelique Attard. Ms Attard, one of 10 volunteer coaches, helps athletes train to compete in the Special Olympics, which is for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

"All the coaches we have are so dedicated. We do it from our hearts. If I had to be paid for it, it wouldn't be the same. Seeing athletes achieve results is all the reward I could ask for," she says adding that there is a need for more coaches.

"You see the progress and when we go to the games, it comes out even more. They'll be very excited but they want to make their parents, coaches and each other so happy that they really go for it," she says.

Roberta Zammit Cutajar is the mother of 15-year-old swimmer Mark.

"Joining the Special Olympics has done him a world of good. He's made friends and has a social life apart from the health benefits. He loves training and does so very willingly. Like his friends, he's really hoping to win...When I look at him I feel so proud of him," she says with beaming eyes.

Lukarda Cassar's daughter, Sylvana, is also looking forward to competing. "She has been swimming since she was five and always loved being in the water. Participating in these games has helped her a lot. She always looks forward to training with the rest of the team," Mrs Cassar says proudly.

Ms Attard confirmed the athletes' dedication. With the help of assistants Melanie Azzopardi, Nicole Cremona and Andrea Agius the aquatic team train at the pool three times a week and at the gym another three times weekly.

"In the real world these athletes would not be given such a chance. But through Special Olympics they get the opportunity they so deserve," the trainer says adding that sponsors played a vital role in ensuring that these athletes' were allowed to compete.

Agreeing to this, Special Olympics Malta national director Anna Calleja adds: "Some of our athletes have never travelled and, yes, it's a dream for them. We need sponsors, so that other athletes will next be given the same opportunity... So thanks go to all the sponsors, who helped us, especially the Vodafone Foundation".

Ms Calleja explained that athletes were trained all year round to ensure they improved their skills.

"I believe that sports for such athletes should not be just a hobby, but part of their lifestyle... Anyone who wants to join Special Olympics is more than welcome. I am proud to say that some of our athletes have reached the highest standards in these games.

"We learn from our athletes. We learn that everyone is equal, everyone shares the same happiness and joy. As an ex-athlete myself, I realise they have the same feelings, like I used to have when competing," she said.

Special Olympics

Special Olympics is an international non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition.

The 2007 Special Olympics World Summer Games will be held in Shanghai, China, between October 2-11.

In addition to almost 7,500 athletes, Special Olympics expects the 2007 Summer Games to draw 40,000 volunteers, 3,500 event officials and thousands of families, volunteers, spectators and journalists from every continent.

Special Olympics athletes of all ability levels will compete in 25 different Olympic-type and demonstration sports. The Maltese athletes leave Malta on September 26 and will be competing in aquatics, athletics, bocce, bowling, football (soccer), gymnastics and tennis.

www.specialolympics.org