The 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games open on July 25th in Los Angeles. Over 40 Israeli competitors will be among the more than 7,000 Special Olympics athletes from 177 nations to compete in 25 Olympic-type sports this year. It’s a world stage for the athletes to demonstrate their courage, determination, and spirit of sportsmanship on the playing field. We hope you’ll make plans to be a Fan in the Stands on Thursday, July 30th, and join our Federation in creating an atmosphere of excitement as we cheer on competitors in tennis.
Ron Segal, one of the Special Olympics athletes from Israel competing in this year’s World Games, shares his inspiring story:
“My name is Ron Segal. I live in a hostel of the kibbutz movement in Herzliya. I am 23 and have participated in the Special Olympics in Israel for seven years. My sports are Athletics and Bowling. I have been in two international competitions and won a gold medal at the long jump, a silver medal in the 100-meter run, and a silver medal in a relay race at the European Games. In everyday life I do not have special difficulties, so for me it is a framework that I can train and compete.
My participation is meaningful for my family and for the involvement of families in many activities. Since being a Special Olympian, I have had many personal achievements, including improved athletics. My family is proud of my achievements and tells everyone when I compete and the results of the competitions. I work at a sushi restaurant, where I always tell about the competitions and show the medals. All the people there give me respect and appreciate me.
I dream about the future — to succeed in sports and work.”
To take your place to cheer in the stands on July 30, go to: /page/signup/special-olympics-fans-in-the-stands-opportunity
