#Sport# Disability #Inclusion #Solidarity #StrongerTogether
Special Olympics France, in partnership with Sophia Club Entreprises, is organizing the 14th edition of its solidarity challenge in Sophia Antipolis in aid of people with intellectual disabilities from March 11 to 13.
All companies on the Côte d’Azur were able to register teams of volunteer employees to run in a relay at Parc des Bouillides, covering a total distance of 10 km. Companies can sponsor teams made up of people with intellectual disabilities.
This year, the lucky participants will have the opportunity to challenge the team of Champions led by Alain Bernard, a four-time Olympic Medalist and ambassador of Special Olympics France since 2019.
“Alain is a great champion and a committed ambassador, with whom we share common values. It is an honor for the Special Olympics France athletes to benefit from such support for a cause that needs much more visibility! In France, 700,000 people live with intellectual disabilities, and they are still invisible to society. Thanks to our sports programs open to everyone, and thanks to our athletes who give their best, we no longer look at their disability but at their achievements.” Florence Jarlier-Desbonnets, General Delegate of the association.
The proceeds from the solidarity race will help fund the swimming meet taking place at Nautipolis the following day. This sporting and friendly event gathers nearly 100 athletes with intellectual disabilities. They are supported by their educators, coaches, families, and around twenty volunteers. On the program: heats and finals (4 strokes and 4 distances), the “Healthy Feet” health program, and a medal ceremony attended by Alain Bernard and Jean Leonetti, Mayor of Antibes and President of the Sophia Antipolis Agglomeration Community.
This 14th edition is more than ever a beautiful demonstration of solidarity, focused on inclusion and camaraderie. It is part of a long-standing tradition in Sophia Antipolis, reflecting the unwavering commitment of the companies in the Technopole to support intellectual disabilities.
“We are proud to contribute to the admirable work and exemplary efforts of Special Olympics France. The smiles on the athletes’ faces are our reward,” comments Etienne Delhaye, Sophia Club Entreprises.
