For this entire week, Camp Shriver will provide opportunities for people with and without intellectual abilities to develop physical fitness and demonstrate their courage through Olympic-type sports.

For the first time in Vincentian history, {{more}}this camp is being hosted by Special Olympics SVG.

At the official opening ceremony yesterday, Janice McMaster, national director for Special Olympics SVG, explained that the idea was formed out of Eunice Kennedy-Shriver’s decision in the 1950s, to host a summer camp in her back yard for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

“This Camp Shriver is another stepping stone into honouring the mission of Special Olympics,” McMaster said.

“Camp Shriver is a unified sports experience for young people with and without intellectual disabilities to learn new sports skills, seek physical fitness and offer social inclusion on developing lasting, positive friendship while providing all participants to be champions of change.”

The camp, which caters to 35 participants began its activities last Saturday and will continue until December 20.

McMaster highlighted that the camp is expected to have a permanent place on the calendar of activities each year. She also revealed that the activities will include activities in different sporting disciplines such as athletics, football and tennis.

“There will be a session on nutrition, teamwork, etiquette, art and craft and a general open discussion for the athletes to discuss matters affecting them. Athletes and volunteers will be treated to a field trip. There will be an award evening where they will be recognised for their outstanding participation and work during the camp,” she said.

Most of the physical activities are expected to be held at the Victoria Park.(BK)