The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, has sent a message of good luck to the Special Olympics Great Britain team on the eve of The Special Olympics World Games 2019.
This year, Special Olympics Great Britain has sent its biggest delegation of athletes ever to compete in the World Games with 128 Special Olympic Great Britain athletes from England, Scotland and Wales, all competing across 17 sports for Gold medal glory.
The message was read out to the athletes at a special event on Wednesday night to mark the World Games starting on Thursday.
The Duke of Sussex wished the athletes, “the best of luck” and said, “...you should all be incredibly proud of what you have achieved simply by getting on that plane to Abu Dhabi and representing your country.”
His Royal Highness went on to say, “You’ve all been on your own personal journeys to get there but are united in one shared aim: to break down barriers and change attitudes. While you compete over the next two weeks, know that you are an inspiration to us all, especially your friends and families.”
The Duke of Sussex concluded: “We’re all supporting you!”
Michelle Carney, CEO of Special Olympics Great Britain said: “The whole team—athletes and volunteer coaches and staff—could not believe it when they heard the Duke’s message. The reaction was incredible.”
“Special Olympics Great Britain is often described as the best kept secret in sport and we are on a mission to change that. To have received the support and a message from the Duke of Sussex is not only a huge boost to us as an organisation but to all the children and adults with Intellectual Disabilities whether they are competing in the World Games or not. We feel very honoured and grateful.”