SPAIN Hosts Regional Swimming Competition

Three hundred and fifty swimmers from 34 countries in Europe and Eurasia took part in the Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia Regional Swimming Competitions in Palma de Mallorca, Spain on October 14-18,2009.

Special Olympics Spain and Special Olympics Baleares teamed up with FEAPS Balears and AEDIM to host an outstanding event. Prior to the event, the Special Olympic Flame of Hope was brought by motor boat to the Royal Stairs at Palma Port, where initiated a Torch Run across Palma.

The games were opened by spectacular Opening Ceremonies at the Sonomat Soller Center.  "Piscina San Hugo", the official venue for swimming competitions, provided adequate space for all functional areas.  And when they were not competing, Special Olympics athletes had the opportunity to

participate in non sports activities at the Olympic Village and take part in the Healthy Athletes Program activities in Fit Feet, Fun Fitness, Health Promotion and Cardiology.

Photo: Special Olympics swimmers at the 2009 Special Olympics European Swimming Competition in Palma, Spain. (courtesy of Special Olympics)