Valley-Wide Special Olympics Games for Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities Set to Begin

The ‘Valley-Wide Special Olympics Games 2083’ for individuals with intellectual disabilities is scheduled to commence this Sunday in Lalitpur. Shila Thapa, Chairperson of Special Olympics Nepal, announced that the competition, which had been suspended for nearly 10 years due to various reasons, is being revived. Nepal is preparing to participate in the Special Olympics event to be held in the United States in 2027.

This competition aims to develop sports skills and increase participation among people with intellectual disabilities. Organized jointly by Special Olympics Nepal and the Bagmati Province Sports Development Council, the event will take place at the Military Physical Training and Sports Center in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur.

At a press conference held in the capital on Saturday, organizers shared that 24 male and female athletes with intellectual disabilities from Kathmandu, Lalitpur, and Bhaktapur districts will participate. Competitors will compete in 50-meter and 100-meter sprints, long jump, and softball throw events. Shila Thapa expressed confidence that the sports activities would boost the self-esteem of athletes with intellectual disabilities and provide positive energy to their families.

Dr. Lakpa Sherpa, Vice Chairperson of Special Olympics Nepal, stated that the Special Olympics movement, which originated in the United States, has provided opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities to showcase their abilities. General Secretary Seema Rai mentioned that preparations are underway for Nepal’s participation in the 2027 Special Olympics in the U.S. The organizers also informed that gold, silver, and bronze medals will be awarded to the winning athletes.