04 March 2019, New Delhi: A 378 strong SO Bharat contingent including 289 Athletes, 73 Coaches, 1 HOD, 4 Assistant HODs and 11 Assistant Staff from all over India were given a rousing send-off for the fast approaching Special Olympics World Summer Games 2019 today at The Frank Anthony Public School, New Delhi.
The event was held from 4-6 PM at the school, presided by Ms. Aruna Abhey Oswal, PID Lions Clubs International and Founder, Aruna Abhey Oswal Trust. The guests of honor included Mohammad Kaif, former Indian Cricketer and the Ambassador of Ecuador, His Excellency Hector Cueva Jacome
The participants will depart on 8 March 2019 for the global event where they will represent India in 14 out of 24 Olympic-type sports. The teams have been practicing in their respective states and also at the National level camps held under the supervision of Mr Victor R Vaz, National Sports Director, SO Bharat and the Head of the delegation
The preparation and participation of the Indian contingent from Special Olympics Bharat is being supported by the Sports Authority of India, Herbalife Nutrition, the premier global nutrition company, Radio City, who have come on board as the Official Tour Partner, TATA Steel and Infosys
Air Marshal (Retd) Denzil Keelor PVSM, KC, AVSM, VrC, Founding Trustee & CEO SO Bharat said, “It gives me immense pleasure to see growing support for our athletes going for the World Summer Games. We are grateful to our sponsors & former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif who joined us today for the sending off ceremony. The fact that the Athletes have pushed themselves to this extent to be able to face a global sporting challenge makes me proud. I wish my best to all of them and would want them to continue with their efforts to show their best to the world.”
Former Indian Cricketer & Assistant Coach, Delhi Capitals Mohammad Kaif who was also present at the event wished luck to the athletes and said, “Special Olympics is a great movement and I feel delighted to be part of the sending off of the Indian contingent for the World Summer Games 2019. I extend my heartiest congratulations to Special Olympics Bharat & wish the very best to the athletes.”