Friday 12th October 2007

GB Athletes In Record Breaking Medal Haul at Special Olympics World Summer Games

Athletes representing Great Britain returned home from the Special Olympics World Summer Games today with a total of 224 medals. Following a successful two weeks in Shanghai, the triumphant athletes flew into Heathrow this afternoon carrying 84 gold, 83, silver and 57 bronze medals, the highest number of medals ever won by GB athletes in The Special Olympics World Summer Games.

159 athletes representing Great Britain competed against Special Olympics athletes from all over the world. In total, 7,000 athletes from 169 countries competed at the Games in Shanghai which took place from 2-11 October 2007. 40,000 volunteers, 3,500 event officials and thousands of families, spectators and journalists from every continent participated in the event. Medal highlights included both the women’s 5-a-side and the men’s 11-a-side football teams winning gold and the entire equestrian team each won gold medals.

Special Olympics Great Britain is recognised as the third member of the Olympic family, specialising in year-round athletic training and competition for the learning disabled. It is the world’s largest year-round programme of sports training and competitions for individuals with learning disabilities.

“I am immensely proud of our athletes achievement at The World Games,” said Lawrie McMenemy, SOGB Chairman, “they have showcased their abilities and talents on a world stage, proving that they deserve just as many accolades as other world-class athletes.”

England and Portsmouth FC goalkeeper David James said “What a fantastic achievement by our athletes. Everyone associated with the whole Special Olympics movement should be very proud. We have to ensure we build on this success and increase access and participation, attract more coaches and make sure that everyone can enjoy sport at whatever level. The victory for the men and women’s football teams is especially welcome.”

Special Olympics Team Great Britain 2007 is comprised of 16 squads including: Aquatics, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Cycling, Equestrian, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Judo, Kayaking, Powerlifting, Sailing, Table Tennis, Ten Pin Bowling and Tennis. The teams are supported by a national fund-raising effort by Domino’s Pizza.

For further information please contact:

Emma Newell at Lexis Sport Tel: 0207 908 6483/07971 175477 enewell@lexispr.com