Kortrijk to host 3,500 athletes for Special Olympics National Games
From 28 to 31 May, 3,500 Belgian athletes with intellectual disabilities will gather in Kortrijk for the 41st edition of the National Games, organised by Special Olympics Belgium. This is the third time the city has hosted the national competition.
For three days, athletes will compete in various sports disciplines. Admission to the games is free of charge for spectators. There will also be entertainment, food and drink in the Olympic Village at the Lange Munte sports complex.
The event begins on 28 May with a torch run, in which the Flame of Hope is carried by the athletes for 13km through the city. The opening ceremony begins at 19.00, followed by musical performances.
Unifying force
From 29 to 31 May, the sports competitions will take place. Athletes will compete in 20 disciplines, including cycling, swimming and athletics. There will also be inclusive sports competitions featuring athletes with and without intellectual disabilities.
"Kortrijk is ready and very proud to once again host the National Games of Special Olympics Belgium," said mayor Ruth Vandenberghe. "After the success of previous editions in 1997 and 2008, we have continued our commitment to an inclusive society in which sport plays a unifying role."
The Special Olympics is the world's largest sports and health organisation for people with disabilities, operating in more than 190 countries. The first edition of the National Games was organised in 1979 by Special Olympics Belgium, which is officially recognised by the Belgian Olympic and Interfederal Committee.
#FlandersNewsService | Last year's edition of the Special Olympics Belgium in La Louvière © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND
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