The Philippine delegation for this year’s Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 has started to show the results of their training as they begin to bring home medals across different sporting events.
Marlon Tacata Tindoc got a bronze medal at the Squat Powerlifting with a score of 92.50. Zan Chen of China and Safwan Esherwali got the gold and silver medals after getting scores of 180 and 120 respectively.
In the field of athletics, Perlita Teves finished 3rd for the 200m run with a 41.18 seconds. Pakistan’s Syeda Rubab got 1st place as she finished the sprint within 36.64 seconds while Senegal’s Khadija Sy followed suit at 37.07 seconds, getting 2nd place.
Ambassador Quintana wishes for the Filipinos’ spirit of sportsmanship to shine as they compete with the world’s best on a worldwide platform which is the Special Olympics: “I wish to welcome the over 7,000 athletes from over 170 countries, including 58 athletes from the Philippines, to the United Arab Emirates. I wish all the athletes best of luck as they represent their countries in the various athletic competitions. But more importantly, take time to enjoy your stay, try to form friendships and build new relationships.”
The Philippine team comprised of almost 40 athletes will be participating in eight different sports including Athletics, Swimming, Badminton, Bocce, Gymnastics (rhythmic), Powerlifting, Bowling, and Football.
Further to the celebration of acceptance and tolerance in the UAE, the Special Olympics aims to prove to the world that people of determination can become valued members of their very own communities, leading to a more inclusive and respectful society for everyone.
The Special Olympics is ongoing until March 20, with a closing ceremony to take place on March 21.
