(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Nore than 1,000 athletes from 31 countries took part in an impressive opening ceremony of the 9th Special Olympics Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Regional Games that kicked off on Saturday.
Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, attended the opening ceremony at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. "A global event that buttresses the UAE's prestigious standing in the sports and humanitarian domains," he said.
The Games are being held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
"The Emirates' hosting of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 is a dear dream cherished and supported by Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed from the very beginning until it has become true in the Year of Zayed," Sheikh Hazza said.
"You are a source of inspiration and determination for overcoming challenges and surviving headwinds," he said to People of Determination.
The ceremony opened with the National Anthem and a video titled 'Welcome to Our City', followed by the arrival of more than 1,000 athletes from 31 countries into the arena in an impressive musical spectacle.
The event was officially launched when the Special Olympics Flag was ushered into ADNEC with representatives of participating coaches and players reading the Olympics' official oath.
This was followed a video displaying the Olympic Flame Tour which was conducted over the past few days.
The event will see the participants vying in 16 different games hosted in eight different venues: ADNIC, Zayed Sports City, Yas Marina Circuit, New York University campus in Abu Dhabi, Officers Club, Mubadala Arena, Al Jazeera Sports Club, and Al Forsan Club. Entrance is open for all.
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