JCF, Special Olympics launch torch run ahead of World Summer Games
Published:Wednesday | May 17, 2023 | 1:22 AM
WITH A return to normality after the COVID-19 pandemic, Special Olympics Jamaica chairman Ali McNabb is bullish about Jamaica’s prospects for the upcoming Special Olympics Summer World Games as well as meeting the required financial target to fund the team’s campaign.
McNabb was speaking at yesterday’s launch of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics which forms part of their fundraising efforts for the Summer World Games, which is set to take place next month in Berlin.
While the torch run is slated for July 16, well after the tournament, yesterday’s launch also signalled the start of accepting pledges for them to meet the minimum $3-million target.
It will be the first Summer World Games to be held since the pandemic and McNabb said that having the support of Jamaica Constabulary Force in this endeavour was vital, not only just to compete but to continue championing the cause of inclusion and support for persons with intellectual disabilities.
“The support of law enforcement is critical. Not just from a monetary standpoint but knowing that they support us emotionally. Law enforcement, inclusive of Jamaica, has been the main fund source for Special Olympics worldwide. Jamaica is getting there with the numbers. COVID kind of stopped us but we are back on track and I am expecting great things from the local law enforcement.
An over 60-member team is expected to take part in the competition, a reduced number from the 90-member squad that competed at the 2019 Games in Abu Dhabi.
Additionally, this year’s staging will put more of a spotlight on Jamaica with Athlete leader for Special Olympics Caribbean, David Duncan, attending the Global Athlete Congress where he is vying for the presidency.
McNabb said he is confident in his chances of winning but is more concerned about the larger picture of what it could mean for Special Olympians.
“David has been a leader throughout the Caribbean. We do hope and we expect that he is going to get the presidency. But most importantly, we are transforming lives. We are helping people to understand the benefit of inclusion and the benefit of acceptance of people who are different,” McNabb said.
Duncan praised members of local law enforcement for their continuous support of the Special Olympic movement.
“We need all the support that we can get so that our athletes can perform at their best, they can be comfortable. They can go to the Games and know that they have the support of Jamaica, of law enforcement. They have been great partners for us and we look forward to it.”
With ongoing preparation year-round, McNabb said he is optimistic about the team’s chances this year.