Every two years, Special Olympics athletes come together to compete at the Special Olympics World Games. With competition and the opening ceremony taking place tomorrow (25th July), over 6,500 athletes from 165 countries will descend upon Los Angeles to show the true meaning of courage, joy and determination.

The judo competition begins on Tuesday (28th July), with six British competitors taking part at the UCLA Student Activities Centre in LA.

Lining up for Special Olympics GB will be: Kathleen Inglis (Wallyford, East Lothian, Scotland); Sarah Scott (North Shields, Tyne and Wear); Harry Farley (Rye, East Sussex); Thomas Farley (Rye, East Sussex); Christopher Murphy (Glasgow, Scotland); Holly Tadman (South East).

Harry Farley

Harry is 16 and lives in a semi-rural country area in the South East of England. Harry lists his sporting heros as Ben Quilter, London 2012 Paralympic medallistt, and James Farley (his brother), Judo Special Olympics gold medallist [World Games 2013 in Dublin].

Speaking ahead of the event, Harry said: “I feel proud and honoured to be competing in the Special Olympics; they encourage and offer me great opportunities. I want to meet and make some good friends who have different abilities.”

 

Thomas Farley

Harry’s older brother Thomas, aged 18, will also be competing at the Special Olympics World Games. Seeing his brother win a gold medal in judo at the Special Olympic World Games 2003 in Dublin is one of his favourite sporting moments.

Thomas said: “The Special Olympics organisation is a wonderful group that has allowed me to compete in the sport I love, but with support for my needs. It also has given me the opportunity to meet so many people with different abilities in a place where we are all treated positively.”

 

Kathleen Inglis

Kathleen started doing judo while at school and enjoyed it. She now trains twice a week, joined Special Olympics in 2008 and has competed in many competitions since.

Kathleen said: “I’m proud to represent my country in judo. I’m going to do my best and I’m looking forward to meeting new people.”

 

Christopher Murphy

Christopher is 20, lives in Scotland and is a 1st Dan. Christopher trains six times a week and is a full-time student at City of Glasgow College.

Speaking ahead of the World Games, Chris said: “I am hoping to have lots of fun and win a gold medal. I want to meet people, experience Los Angeles and learn some new things.

“I’ve never been to the USA but I have been to Italy to compete in judo.  I do have an American accent, though!”

 

Sarah Scott

Sarah goes to Tyne Met College where she studies Social and Vocational Skills alongside training twice a week. 

Sarah said: “It is my biggest challenge going to America because I have not been there before, but I think it will be good fun because I will meet people who have come from all over the world. It is also a big step going to America to represent my country.

“Thanks to Special Olympics I have met more people; I do regular exercises and play multiple sports. It has built my confidence and social skills. I like that I meet and enjoy the company of new friends, especially those with Downs syndrome, whilst enjoying an activity.”

 

Holly Tadman

Holly is 18 and from the South East of England. Training three times a week, Holly joined Special Olympics in 2005.

Holly said: “I have more confidence now; I have made friends; and I feel able to help younger players in judo. At the World Games I hope to gain a gold medal, make new friends, meet new people, and become more independent.”

 

We wish all competitors the best of luck at the Special Olympics World Games.

Find out more about the Special Olympics at http://specialolympicsgb.org.uk and http://www.la2015.org

 

Entries are open for the British Special Needs Open Championships 2015 on 29th August at Stoke Mandeville Stadium. Click here for details >>>