Special Olympics Australia has won the right to host the inaugural Special Olympics Asia Pacific Regional Games in December 2013.

The NSW city of Newcastle won the right to host the Games against strong competition from cities in India and Malaysia.

The Governor-General and Patron of Special Olympics Australia, Ms Quentin Bryce, made the announcement on 14 March at the Sydney Opera House following the decision by Special Olympics International board and directors to award Newcastle the event.

The Asia-Pacific Games will be the largest multi-country event ever held for people with an intellectual disability in our region.

About 1700 athletes, 600 coaches, 4000 volunteers and 200 000 spectators from 25 nations across the Asia-Pacific region will converge on Newcastle from 30 November 30 to 7 December next year to be part of this event and support athletes competing in a range of Olympic-style sports.
The Australian Government, through the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), is a proud supporter of the Special Olympics. A total of $545 000 will be provided to Special Olympics Australia in 2011–12.
‘All Australians should have the opportunity to participate in sport and the Australian Government’s investment and partnership with Special Olympics Australia supports this vision,’ said the Minister for Sport, Senator Kate Lundy.

‘Our Special Olympics athletes and volunteers are an inspiration to all Australians and the Government looks forward to the continued support of Special Olympic programs.’

The Chief Executive of Special Olympics, Gill Stapleton, said the win was a great opportunity for Special Olympics athletes to share their successes and talents with members of the broader community.

‘An event of such magnitude is a just reward for the athletes and volunteers who give their best at weekly sports training,’ Stapleton said.

‘This is a great opportunity for them to share their talents with the wider community. I can’t wait to see athletes from across Asia Pacific doing their best and experiencing the thrill of competition.’

Special Olympics Australia is a not-for-profit organisation which supports around 4000 athletes in over 250 sports clubs across Australia.

To read more about Australia’s achievements at the Special Olympics, visit specialolympics.com.au