Global General

Regional Special Olympics kicks off in Damascus

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-09-26 11:42

A general view shows the opening ceremony of the seventh Special Olympics of Middle East/North Africa in Damascus, Sept 25, 2010. [Photo/Agencies]

DAMASCUS - ?The seventh Regional Special Olympics of Middle East and North Africa (SO MENA) kicked off here on Saturday in Teshreen Sports Complexes with 2,000 athletes from 21 countries and regions taking part.

In his opening address, the local director of the SO Syria Anwar Abdel Hai expressed hope that the event will enhance empathy towards mentally handicapped people.

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The event is attended by Mrs. Asma Al-Assad, honorary chair person of Special Olympics Syria.

The number of mentally handicapped people in Syria is estimated at ten thousands.

Special Olympics, established in 1968, is an international organization dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society through sports training and competition.