The World Games is the world’s largest inclusive sporting event and attending the 2023 event will be 64 athletes from Team Australia. They will compete across nine sports including athletics, basketball bocce, bowling, golf, equestrian, gymnastics, swimming and tennis, supported by 28 volunteer officials.
The Australian team will joint 7000 athletes with an intellectual disability from 180 countries in nine days of competition in Berlin, Germany from June 17-25.
Over 96 per cent of the athletes wearing the green and gold will be representing Australia for the first time, like Sophie from Victoria, pictured, who was delighted to be selected for gymnastics. “I’m proud and excited to be selected for the team and can’t wait to travel overseas with my friends.”
Team Australia will be represented by six gymnasts at the games.
Special Olympics Australia CEO Pierre Comis, said the athletes selected for Team Australia have trained hard to earn a place on the team and are rightly proud and excited.
“Your heart will be warmed by the amazing things they can do on the court, on the track, in the pool, on the field and in the gym. Team Australia will show you what athletes with an intellectual disability are capable of when they are supported and included,” he said.
The team will come together in February for a team training camp in Melbourne in preparation for the event and fundraising activities.
To view the full team and follow their journey, visit: www.specialolympics.com.au
Photo: Gymnast Sophie receiving her selection letter