Special Olympians get a boost

(SOCI): The Red Sail Group of companies has donated CI$15,000 to support the efforts of Special Olympics Cayman Islands (SOCI) in its mission to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults. The Red Sail Group has long been an advocate of the non-profit sports training program, which caters to athletes with intellectual disabilities from 8 years of age. Andrew Smilley, an employee of the Red Sail group, won gold in both the 200 meter individual medley and the 400 meter freestyle at the 2007 Special olympics World Summer Games, as well as the 1.5-kilometer open water swim at the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Greece.

Rod McDowall, Operations Manager at The Red Sail Group, said, “Special Olympics Cayman Islands is a great program and we are happy to be in a position to support the athletes in our community and across the country. SOCI is consistently providing these children and adults alike with opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy; and The Red Sail Group is committed to encouraging their efforts”

Nick Freeland, Chairman of Special Olympics Cayman Islands, expressed his gratitude to The Red Sail Group for their generous donation. “Without the support of companies such as The Red Sail Group, we in turn would not be able to support our amazing athletes. We strongly believe that with sports training and competition, these children and adults lead fuller, more self-sufficient lives, and are able to achieve success on and off the field of competition”, commented Mr. Freeland.

The Red Sail Group also makes contributions to The Lighthouse School and various education programs in the community, through donations and employee volunteer programs.