The city of Kortrijk, West Flanders, is set to host about 3,500 athletes from 28 to 31 May, during the 41st edition of the national Special Olympics.
This is the third time Kortrijk has been the host city for the National Games of Special Olympics Belgium, which brings together Belgian athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Throughout the three-day event, athletes will compete across 20 different sports disciplines, with all competitions open to the public free of charge.
Visitors will also be able to enjoy entertainment, food, and drinks at the Olympic Village located at the Lange Munte campus, according to Dominique Dehaene, Director of Special Olympics Belgium.
The opening ceremony, presented by Flemish actor and presenter Manu Van Acker, will be preceded on Wednesday, 28 May, by the Torch Run, a 13-kilometre relay through the city, carrying the Flame of Hope and led by the athletes.
The ceremony, beginning at 7 p.m., is open to the public at no cost and will feature hosts including Van Acker, French-speaking actress and presenter Bérénice, and familiar face Anouck Van Hoofstadt. Musical performances by De Romeo’s and Green Onions will add to the festivities.
The athletics competitions will run from 29 to 31 May.
“Kortrijk is fully prepared and immensely proud to once again be the host city for the National Games of Special Olympics Belgium,” said Mayor Ruth Vandenberghe. “Following the success of previous editions in 1997 and 2008, we have continued our efforts towards an inclusive society where sport plays a unifying role.
“We warmly invite everyone to cheer on the athletes and join us in making this sporting event an unforgettable edition,” the mayor added.
