Almost two years following the splendid Special Olympics World Games, the Olympic Stadium now proudly displays a new commemorative plaque, a poignant symbol of inclusion. This plaque was unveiled after the spectacular opening ceremony attended by over 50,000 spectators that heralded the arrival of the world’s largest inclusive sporting event.
At the inauguration, Sven Albrecht, Federal Managing Director of Special Olympics Germany, remarked on the broader implications of the plaque: “The installation of the information stele is a further step towards raising awareness of inclusion and diversity in sport. The Special Olympics World Games in Berlin have shown that every person, regardless of their abilities, deserves a place in sport and society.” His words echoed the profound inspiration drawn from the athletes, who have showcased the incredible power of sport.
The Games, held from June 17 to June 25, 2023, marked the largest sporting extravaganza in Germany since the 1972 Munich Olympics, featuring over 6,500 athletes from 170 nations competing in 26 disciplines. Athlete spokesperson Dennis Mellentin expressed the collective joy: “It was an incredible experience for the athletes to run in front of so many people in such an impressive stadium… The information stele will help to spread our message further.”
A new commemorative plaque was unveiled at the Olympic Stadium nearly two years after the Special Olympics World Games, symbolising inclusion and diversity in sports. Sven Albrecht highlighted the importance of this initiative, acknowledging the inspiration brought by the athletes during the Games. Spanning from June 17 to June 25, 2023, the event was a significant moment in German sports history, featuring over 6,500 athletes from 170 nations.
The inauguration of the inclusion stele at the Olympic Stadium serves as a lasting tribute to the impact of the Special Olympics World Games. By promoting values of inclusivity and diversity in sports, the plaque encapsulates the legacy of the remarkable athletes who have demonstrated that everyone deserves equal recognition in both sport and life. With over 6,500 athletes participating, the Games highlighted a historic moment in Germany’s sporting narrative.
Original Source: www.berlin.de