Special Olympics World Summer Games 2011

Special Olympics World Games offers a world stage to showcase the Special Olympics movement and to celebrate the abilities and accomplishments of people with learning disabilities. In doing so, they foster a new global vision of acceptance.

The 13th Special Olympics World Summer Games took place in Athens, Greece from 25 June – 4 July 2011.

7,000 Special Olympics athletes from 180 nations and all ability levels competed in 22 Olympic-type sports.
25,000 volunteers were there to ensure the Games run smoothly.

Special Olympics Great Britain sent a team of 215 delegates to represent Great Britain in Athens, including:

  • 151 athletes
  • 53 volunteer head coaches and coaches
  • 6 Unified Partners and
  • 5 management and support staff
Special Olympics GB athletes competed in 17 sports – Aquatics, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Cycling, Equestrian, Football (including Unified Football), Golf, Artistic and Rhythmic Gymnastics, Judo, Kayaking, Powerlifting, Sailing, Table Tennis and Tennis.


The 2011 GB Team received a Good Luck Message from UK's Primer Minister David Cameron.

For more information about the Special Olympics World Summer Games 2011, please visit the Official Website of the Games.

For media enquiries, please contact the Special Olympics GB PR Director on 0782 777 7938.

For information on sponsorship opportunities or to make a donation to the Special Olympics GB Team, please contact Karen Wallin.


Quick Links