Tue, 31/10/2006

Eighty seven ACT athletes recently travelled to the Gold Coast to compete at the National Special Olympics.

The athletes joined almost 1,000 competitors with an intellectual disability and participated in Ten Pin Bowling, Tennis, Swimming, Golf, Bocce, Basketball and Athletics winning over 100 medals, 39 of which were gold. In addition many athletes were also able to record personal bests in their chosen sport.

The ACT Government assisted 20 athletes to travel to the games by awarding them each $500 scholarships.

"Those chosen to compete at the National Games are very special people and they have parents and coaches who put so much time into assisting and supporting these young people" Mary said. "This experience allows them to grow and develop self confidence. It's fantastic to see the look on their faces when they show you their medals".