At the reception at Rhodes, the athletes got a special visit from the Norwegian ambassador Sverre Stub, who wished them the best of luck with the competitions.
In his speech to the 44 athletes, he said he is convinced the athletes will make a huge contribution in the competitions. He also expressed the hope that in addition to sports, the young Special Olympics participants will make new friendships, both within the Norwegian group and with athletes from other countries.
The Norwegian athletes spend their first days in Greece in the island Rhodes. They are working to get used to the warm climate to be able to perform their best at the competitions.
Ambassador Stub is certain that the events will be a great success.
– The Greeks have great experience in organizing such events. They had the first Olympic Games 2500 years ago. I am convinced that the Special Olympics in Athens will be a great success.
The 7.500 Athletes from 185 countries will march in the Panathenaic Stadium on the opening ceremony June 25. They will shout to the whole world:
“Let me win! But if I cannot win let me be brave in the attempt”.