1 week Ago By Ross Povey
Special Olympics Monaco will host the prestigious European Swimming Meet, known as the Princess Charlène Special Olympics, on October 26 and 27, 2024...
The event will take place at the Centre Nautique Albert II and is set to welcome over 200 athletes from across Europe, including teams from Germany, Cyprus, Ireland, Gibraltar, and Slovenia. With competitions running from 9:00 a.m.
to 5:00 p.m., the event will offer the public free and open access to cheer on the participants.
Held under the patronage of Princess Charlène of Monaco, the event represents the second time Special Olympics Monaco has organized a competition of this scale for athletes with intellectual disabilities. It comes a year after the World Games in Berlin (June 2023), offering competitors the chance to shine on the international stage once more. Special Olympics, founded in the United States in 1968, aims to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities through sport.
The movement expanded to Europe in 1980, with Monaco being among the first to join, alongside Belgium and Ireland. Under the leadership of past presidents Mireille Calmes and Pierre Van Klaveren, the organization has allowed athletes from Monaco to proudly represent the Principality at various national and international competitions. The upcoming event promises a weekend of spirited competition, unity, and inclusion, as athletes from different countries showcase their skills and determination.
Beyond the excitement of the races, the meet highlights the power of sport to bring people together, fostering a sense of community and pride among the participants and supporters alike. Photo by Thomas Park.
