Special-needs children get a chance to shine

The Championship of Challenge offered 150 students from eight schools the chance to show off their skills.

Salah Ahmed Abudel Rahman competes in Championship of Challenge at the Al Jazira Sports Club in Abu Dhabi.

ABU DHABI // A one-day event for special-needs children offered 150 students from eight schools the chance for some healthy competition in front of family and friends.

The event, which took place at Al Jazira Sports Club on Tuesday, was themed "Championship of Challenge".

Samira Salem, the director of the Ability Development Centre, which organised the competition, explained: "When we say challenge, we don't mean challenging each other for first place, but challenging their abilities.

"We encourage schools to come and watch this championship to spread awareness, and to show everyone that those kids, even though their abilities are limited, they are still able to participate in similar events as normal children participate in."

Students competed in a variety of sports, including swimming, basketball and bowling.

"The special-needs children feel very happy when they see people supporting them and watching their events," Ms Salem said.

Su'ood al Maamary, a 23-year-old engineering student at the Petroleum Institute, was one of 35 volunteers at the event.

"I want to be part of the society, I want to help people, I don't want to just go out and hang out with friends," he said.

Suprana Mathur, the general manager of Volunteer in Abu Dhabi, which hosted the event, said: "It warms our hearts to see so many Abu Dhabi residents who are interested in giving their time to support the special-needs schools."