Kuwaiti delegation heads to Cairo for Special Olympics regional games

17/09/2026

KUWAIT CITY, Sept. 17 (KUNA): A delegation from Kuwait's Al-Tamouh Sports Club for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities, the official representative of the Kuwaiti Special Olympics, left for Cairo on Thursday to take part in the second phase of the 10th Special Olympics Regional Games for the Middle East and North Africa.

The competitions, running from September 17 to 23, feature equestrian, artistic gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics, and powerlifting.

Speaking to KUNA, Head of the Kuwaiti Special Olympics Families Council Sadiqa Al-Ansari highlighted the importance of Kuwait's participation, saying the regional event provides athletes with an opportunity to represent Kuwait, compete alongside athletes from across the region, and enhance their technical and sporting skills.

She said the club had implemented a comprehensive two-month training program for male and female athletes, including regular technical and physical sessions, skills development in the participating disciplines, psychological preparation, and health and fitness assessments.

Al-Ansari said the Kuwaiti delegation comprises 17 athletes, coaches and administrators, expressing hope that they would deliver strong performances reflecting the progress of sports for persons with intellectual disabilities in Kuwait while gaining valuable experience through regional competition.

She stressed that participation goes beyond competition, giving athletes opportunities to demonstrate their abilities, build self-confidence and independence, and strengthen teamwork. She also highlighted the role of sports in promoting inclusion, empowerment, and active participation in society.

Al-Ansari added that the Kuwaiti Special Olympics is making its debut in artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, with two female athletes competing in the disciplines. She described the move as an important step toward broadening participation and identifying new sporting talent in the future