The following is being distributed at the request of Sport Newfoundland and Labrador:

Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador 2010 Summer Championships

The Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador 2010 Summer Championships are taking place June 19-20, in Gander/ Gambo. The provincial championships will feature over 140 athletes, coaches and mission staff from 10 different Special Olympics community based clubs across the province. Athletes will be competing in the sports of athletics and swimming.

"The Towns of Gander and Gambo have worked hard to make these championships a reality. Their support and leadership continues to drive our organization forward by continually providing quality programs and competitive opportunities for our athletes" says Nelson White, Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador, Executive Director. "Special Olympics provide individuals with an intellectual disability an opportunity to take the spotlight and achieve through sport. Provincial championships are the pinnacle for the majority of our athletes on many levels so we are thrilled to be able to provide them with that opportunity."

The 2010 Provincial Summer Track Championships will take place in Gambo on Saturday June 19 and Sunday June 20. This event will feature 100 athletes from seven community based clubs from across the province taking part in a track and field competition. The Provincial Swimming Championships will take place at the Gander pool on Sunday, June 20. This event features 32 swimmers from around the province. The athletes will be supported by an additional 70 coaches, mission staff and respite workers. The opening ceremonies will take place on Saturday, June 19, 12:00 noon at the Gambo track complex.

The championships will be officially opened when Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) members escort the Flame of Hope into the opening ceremonies. The Torch Run will be represented by members of the RCMP, Military Police and Sheriffs Office. Since its inception 21 years ago the LETR has raised in excess of one million dollars for Special Olympics.

Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador is dedicated to enriching the lives of Newfoundlanders and Labradoreans with an intellectual disability through sport. It is a provincial not-for-profit grassroots organization that provides sport training and competition opportunities for over 500 athletes of all ages and abilities. There are currently 12 community based clubs that offer sport programs. Through sport Special Olympics offers athletes and families a sense of achievement and an opportunity to excel as they take on leadership roles within their community.

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Media contact:
Nelson White
Executive Director
Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador
354 Water Street — Suite 426
St. John's, NL A1C 1C4
709-738-1923
Fax: 709-738-0119
nelsonw@sonl.ca 

2010 06 16                                                   3:40 p.m.