Special Olympics is the world‘s largest organization for people with intellectual disabilities, providing training and athletic competition to 4.5 million athletes in 175 countries. 19 athletes from the Lebenshilfe workshop in Braunau as well as the workshop and the residential building in Mattighofen are taking part in this year’s Special Olympics in Austria.
The already proven venues for the 2017 World Winter Games will act as hosts from March 14th to 19th: Graz, Schladming and Ramsau am Dachstein as well as Seiersberg-Pirka. The Lebenshilfe athletes fight for medals in stock sports – and with good chances.
“Many goosebumps moments”
The stick shooters from the Lebenshilfe workshop train once a week in a stick sports hall. “We take a short break at Christmas, but otherwise everyone puts their heart and soul into training all year round,” says Martina Markovic, one of the team’s Lebenshilfe employees and trainers.
As a reward for their good preparation, the athletes hope to win “many medals” at the Special Olympics, says Markovic. When shooting, the most important thing is the right technique and focus, explains Anita Schrattenecker.
The Lebenshilfe employee has also been training the troop for several years and is looking forward to taking part in the Special Olympics Winter Games again this year together with a colleague from the residential building. “I make sure that the athletes always have me in their field of vision,” says Schrattenecker. At least as important as the sporting successes are the close-knit group, which is accompanied by two trainers and four volunteers, but also nice acquaintances and the great atmosphere at the entire event.
“There are a lot of goosebumps moments. The atmosphere and solidarity that you experience among the athletes at the Special Olympics is something very special. The athletes have infectious enthusiasm and can be just as happy for the others,” says Markovic.
However, since current inflation also affects participation in sports competitions, participation is now a major financial challenge for many athletes.
Lebenshilfe is therefore happy about any financial support. Information about this is available by phone at 07722/6302 or by email at [email protected]
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