On Sunday 16th March, athletes with learning disabilities from Suffolk joined together at St Joseph’s College, Ipswich for a ‘Celebration of Sport’ to mark the 10th year anniversary of Special Olympics Suffolk’.

During the morning of the event, our Special Olympics Suffolk volunteer sports coaches and their assistants used the fabulous sports facilities at St Josephs College to offer athletes the opportunity to try five different sporting activities in athletics, badminton, boccia, gymnastics and table cricket. It was great fun and enjoyed by all!

An army of volunteers helped out at the event in a variety of ways: parking cars, registering athletes, taking photographs, and providing fundraising refreshments, cakes and a tombola. Athletes were supported by pupils and staff from St Joseph’s College and undergraduate physiotherapy students from the University of Suffolk.

Project 21 kicked off the afternoon programme of activities with a dance and theatrical medley of The Lion King, and injected a lot of energy into a flashmob dance which was enjoyed by most of the audience. This was followed by Special Olympics Suffolk athletes, Ed, Hamish, Simon and Grace who shared inspirational stories that highlighted how sport had influenced their lives.

The athletes were presented by ‘keepsake coins’ designed and made by Realise Futures in Ipswich to mark the 10 year celebration and guests from Special Olympics Great Britain and Active Suffolk presented special awards to four athletes for outstanding dedication in sport.

Huge thanks to all who helped to make this day such a resounding success.