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LEICESTER is celebrating today (13th July 2007), after being named as the city that will host the next Special Olympics National Summer Games in 2009. The announcement – making Leicester the only city in the country to have hosted the games twice – was made in the city today by the chief executive of Special Olympics GB, Chris Hooper. City council leader, Cllr Ross Willmott, said: “I’m delighted that we will have the Special Olympics back in the city on what will be the 20th anniversary of the National Summer Games we held in 1989. “From Braunstone Leisure Centre to the Walkers Stadium, we have many excellent public and private facilities across the city, where we can showcase the sporting talents of children and adults with learning disabilities. “The games will also give us the opportunity to bring together people of all ages from all communities to welcome and support the 4,000 plus people who will come to the city as part of the games in 2009.” Lawrie McMenemy MBE, Chairman of Special Olympics GB, said: “On behalf of the Special Olympics GB Board of Directors, I am delighted to award the National Summer Games 2009 to the City of Leicester. “The people of the city proved 20 years ago what great hosts they are for our event – and in the years since, Leicester has continued to provide opportunities to athletes with learning disabilities. Its central location and the terrific sports facilities in the area will, I am sure, mean a well-run and most enjoyable event for everyone.” The 2009 event programme is likely to feature around 21 sports, including swimming and sailing, kayaking, athletics, basketball, badminton, football, gymnastics, golf, judo and power-lifting. Leicester will use the facilities in Rutland for the water sport events. All of the competing athletes will be based at Leicester University’s new halls of residence in Oadby. Leicester will need around 1,500 trained volunteers to work at the games. Special Olympics GB currently serves over 8,000 athletes who participate in year-round sports training and competition programmes at local, regional, national and international levels. Special Olympics Great Britain National Summer Games are held every four years. The last National Summer Games were held in Glasgow in 2005. |
