news
in the news
and it would be great to qualify for
Abu Dhabi,” Chris said.
“My message for all athletes
competing in the National Games is
to try your best and never give up –
just have a go!
“Special Olympics has helped me
with my physical development and
everyday living skills. I enjoy spreading
the word about our abilities.”
SOA Chief Executive Officer
Corene Strauss said the SOA National
Games is more than just a national
Special Olympics inspiration
N
ew South Wales gymnast
Chris Bunton is one of
more than 1000 athletes
who will compete in the Special
Olympics Australia (SOA)
National Games being held in
Adelaide this month.
Chris, 25 (pictured above), is
a transformative platform to challenge
attitudes, educate and foster wider
acceptance in the community about
of competition for athletes with intellectual disability.
intellectual disability to compete
“We’re extremely proud of each
across a range of 11 sporting of the state teams … the athletes
disciplines, from gymnastics to tenpin are true champions who embody
bowling, athletics to equestrian. the inclusive spirit of the Special
The 2018 SOA National Games
are being held from April 16 to 20 at
perform to the best of his ability. sporting venues across Adelaide.
very proud and honoured,” Chris said.
experience the joy of success, it is also
National Games provides four days hoping to make his peers proud and
“When I represent my state, I feel
Athletes including Chris will be
Olympics movement,” she said.
“The National Games is an
opportunity not just for our Special
Olympics athletes, families, teams
vying for a spot in Team Australia and supporting community to
that will head to Abu Dhabi for the come together to celebrate, but
opportunity to show my abilities. I Special Olympics World Summer also for all Australians to embrace
love the opportunity to make friends Games in 2019. and encourage this extraordinary
“Special Olympics gives me the
and have fun, and Special Olympics
gives me a place to belong to.”
8
Held every four years, the SOA
competition where athletes can
news
“I’m very excited about
competing in the National Games,
competition and broader cause.”
www.nationalgames2018.com.au
linkonline.com.au