King Abdulaziz University Hosts the Inaugural National Games of the Saudi Special Olympics
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King Abdulaziz University’s Sports Village is hosting the first edition of the National Games for the Saudi Special Olympics, held in Jeddah in 2024. The event officially began on Wednesday, 25 Jumada al-Awwal 1446, in the presence of His Excellency the Vice President of the University for Educational Affairs, Professor Dr. Hana bint Abdullah Al-Naim, and His Excellency the Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Fouad bin Abdulaziz Abu Laban.
The ceremony featured the participation of 132 male and female athletes representing 16 clubs from various regions of the Kingdom, including clubs for people with special needs. Participants came from Asir, Medina, Jazan, Al-Rass, Al-Jawf, Al-Baha, Tabuk, Al-Ahsa, Hail, Mecca, Taif, Riyadh, and Al-Noor Sports Club. Additionally, clubs from the Special Olympics were represented by the Efaa Club and the Desert Gazelle Club, reflecting the expansion of the network of sports clubs in the Kingdom.
The opening ceremony featured Olympic traditions, including a ceremonial march of the participating athletes and the lighting of the Games flame. To enhance the event, cultural elements were incorporated through Saudi folklore performances, showcasing the national heritage and highlighting the cultural diversity of the Kingdom.
The participating clubs compete over three days in different sports, including basketball, table tennis and bocce. Before the divisions are made, medical examinations will be conducted in four specialties: physical therapy, oral and dental health, ear health, and eye health. This is aimed at ensuring the safety of participants and the providing integrated health care for them. These efforts are led by the Health Programs Department in cooperation with health managers certified by the Special International Olympics.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures, including Eng. Ayman Abdel Wahab, Regional President of Special International Olympics; Dr. Imad Mohieldin Director General of Sports and Training in the Regional Presidency; Dr. Sherif Al-Fouly, Director of Games and Competitions; and Dr. Maha Al-Juffali, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Saudi Special Olympics.
It is worth noting that the university has inaugurated the new headquarters for the Sports Activities Department, which is part of the Vice Deanship of Student Affairs for activities and skills. This facility is located in the Olympic Sports Village and includes an Olympic swimming pool, squash hall, and bowling alley, as well as a multi-use main hall. The sports complex also features a gymnasium, additional sports halls, and other facilities designed for leisure. The village is equipped with advanced sports equipment, enabling everyone to participate in sports activities. These initiatives contribute to refining skills and abilities while helping to shape the personalities of university students. |
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