The team has 12 athletes. Over 7,000 athletes from 170 nations are expected to converge in Athens to compete in 22 sports disciplines. Of the 12 Botswana athletes, seven will participate in track and field events, four in swimming and one in Judo. The competition runs from June 24 to July 5.
Speaking at the sponsorship event, BTC acting chief executive officer, Keabetswe Segole said they are proud to be part of the Special Olympics family. "We answered the Special Olympics call because we believe that exceptional children can be exceptional athletes," he said. He stated that through sport, people can develop their physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and forge friendships. "The Special Olympics is a celebration of life, hope, equality and ability," he added. Segole commended the Special Olympics committee saying it has done a good job in improving the lives of people living with disability and this is a powerful expression of humanity. He encouraged the athletes to go to Greece and show the world what they are capable of. BTC sponsored one athlete with P22,000 in cash and a return ticket and dressed the whole team with apparel worth over P16,000.
