From 28 to 31 May, around 3,500 Belgian athletes with intellectual disabilities will gather in Kortrijk for the 41st edition of the National Games, organised by Special Olympics Belgium. After 1997 and 2008, this is the third time that the Flemish city has hosted the national competition.
For three days, athletes with intellectual disabilities will compete in various sports disciplines. Admission to the games is free of charge. There will also be entertainment, food and drink in the Olympic Village, located at the Lange Munte sports complex.
The multi-day event begins on Wednesday 28 May with a torch run, in which the so-called Flame of Hope is carried by the athletes over 13 kilometres through the city. The opening ceremony begins at 7 pm, followed by various musical performances.
From 29 to 31 May, the sports competitions will take place. Athletes will compete in 20 different disciplines, including cycling, swimming, and athletics. There will also be inclusive sports competitions featuring athletes with and without intellectual disabilities.
Sports as unifying force
“Kortrijk is ready and very proud to once again host the National Games of Special Olympics Belgium,” says 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 over 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 (BOIC).
