Digicel Fiji yesterday gave a $20,000 sponsorship to the Berlin Special Olympics athletes to assist them in their preparation for next month’s games.

DF chief executive officer Farid Mohammed said, “We’re happy to announce the renewal of our sponsorship for the upcoming world games in Berlin.”

Fiji will be represented by 12 athletes at the Berlin Special Olympics World Games from June 17 to 25.

The 12 were selected after the final trials in Suva during the recent Easter Games.

“Digicel Fiji sponsorship will allow the athletes compete at the highest level representing Fiji at the 2023 world games in Berlin,” he said.

“We have been sponsoring several national events for Special Olympics Fiji.

“They are not just sports people; they are role models who inspire others with courage, determination and perseverance.”

Chairman of Olympics Fiji, Bishwa Sidal said the Digicel Fiji and Special Olympics Fiji partnership has been gratifying.

“It’s a movement through the power of sports, people with intellectual disability; within the disability sector.

“This is one group of people who are more marginalized as there are other disability groups who are vocal as they can speak for themselves,” he said.

Sidal mentioned that people with intellectual disability have to be empowered and encouraged with this type of financial support.

“We are promoting inclusivity and our Government is very much in line with that. Through sports the whole movement is very much intact, so people with intellectual disabilities do participate in every sport that is available.”

A total of 26 sports will be competed for at the special Olympic Games.

Fiji is participating in five sports: athletics, swimming and table tennis, badminton and power lighting.

Story By: Ioane Asioli

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