On Saturday morning, November 9, 2024, the Special Olympics Bharat’s ‘Run For Inclusion’ event was held in the heart of New Delhi. An astonishing 7,000 participants from 150 educational institutions and organizations across Delhi-NCR came together to champion the cause of inclusion through sports.  

 

What is Special Olympics Bharat’s ‘Run For Inclusion’ event?

Held at the Central Civil Service Ground in Chanakyapuri, the run witnessed people from all walks of life coming together to support the movement of inclusion through sports. Notably, over 1,000 athletes with disabilities participated in the run, showcasing the unifying power of sport.

Mallika Nadda, the president of Special Olympics Bharat, highlighted the importance of the event that is aimed at empowering athletes with intellectual disabilities and promoting their integration into mainstream society. 

Union Minister Harsh Malhotra along with BJP MPs Manoj Tiwari, and Bansuri Swaraj flagged off ‘Run for Inclusion’ an event organised by Special Olympics Bharat (SOB) – the national sports federation dedicated to promoting sports for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

The run’s central theme, “Each One, Reach One,” highlighted the importance of inclusivity and encouraged each participant not only to run but also to connect with the special athletes.

This event was a precursor to the upcoming Special Olympics Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling Competition, set to kick off on November 18 at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex

The Special Olympics Asia Pacific Bocce and Bowling Competition is the first global event of its kind held in India, focusing on athletes aged 22 and above with IDD.

This event also marked a significant milestone for Special Olympics Bharat, as it introduced bowling as a competitive sport for special athletes in collaboration with the Tenpin Federation of India.

Special Olympics Bharat, accredited by Special Olympics Inc., USA, is recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, as the National Sports Federation responsible for the development of sports for individuals with IDD across India. Special Olympics is a global movement that uses sports, health, education, and leadership programs to end discrimination against and empower people with intellectual disabilities.

(With agency inputs)