Cayman’s special athletes leave for Greece

(CNS): Cayman’s Special Olympians are on their way to Greece this weekend for the Special Olympics Summer Games in Athens with high hopes of adding to the country’s sporting trophy cabinet. Throughout the years, Cayman’s Special Olympians have built a reputation as strong competitors. Last year during the Special Olympics Latin American (SOLA) Regional Games in Puerto Rico, the national team netted thirteen medals, seven of them gold.  The 2011 team comprises nine athletes. Cindy Whittaker, Andrew Hales, Matthew Ebanks and Shanike Ebanks in track and field; Andrew Smiley, Quinton Ebanks and Kanza Bodden will represent Cayman in the pool;Elena Ow Lam and Mark Ebanks (left) will compete in bocce. (Photo courtesy Cayamn27)

The Special Olympics start next weekend and the Cayman team will be training in Crete before the games start on Saturday 25 June.

Mark Scotland the sports minister wished the athletes well and called on people to follow their progress. “The Special Olympics is arguably one of this year’s biggest international sporting events and we are proud of the delegation representing us,” he said. “Our Special Olympians have worked hard all year, preparing for the Summer Games. Moreover, they have already proven that they have what it takes. We therefore hope that each of them will reach – and exceed – their personal goals,” the Minister concluded.

For more information and to follow results go to http://www.athens2011.org/en/. The Special Olympics Summer Games will take place between 25 June and 4 July.