The opening ceremony of the eleventh National Special Olympics took place on Monday in Marrakech, with more than 1500 athletes from across Morocco flocking to the event from diverse disciplines, representing numerous associations dedicated to the sports of people with cognitive or intellectual challenges.
The athletes represented a variety of disciplines and came to exhibit their skills and determination.
Esteemed dignitaries, including Princess Lalla Soumiya Ouazzani, President of Special Olympics Morocco; Ayman Abdel Wahab, Regional President of Special Olympics International for the Middle East and North Africa; and representatives from various government sectors, as well as renowned sports stars, attended the inauguration.
Nezha Bidouane, Adviser to the President of Special Olympics Morocco, highlighted the remarkable evolution of the Moroccan Special Olympics since its inception by the late Princess Lalla Amina, emphasizing the institution’s role as a national pillar of support for mentally disabled children, noting their commitment to sports domestically and internationally.
Nassim Chradi, National Director of the Moroccan Special Olympics, acknowledged the large number of athletes from 44 associations and 12 disciplines. He also highlighted health and education initiatives intended for empowering individuals while encouraging overall growth.
Aziz Bouderbala, the tournament’s Ambassador, talked about the event’s significance as a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering camaraderie among athletes, and promoting social causes.
The agenda of the event includes a health program at the local Sharifa Hospital in Marrakech, which will provide medical examinations in ophthalmology, dental surgery, otolaryngology, sports medicine, and nutrition. Qualified medical personnel will oversee all procedures for all participants.
The schedule includes a round table discussion on “athlete leaders” to share experiences and promote the ideals and objectives of the Special Olympics. A symposium around the family will also be held to highlight the interrelated responsibilities of sports and families.
The tournament runs from April 21-26.