Special Olympics Chile unveiled the First National Registry for Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities on Friday at the Instituto Profesional AIEP of Universidad Andrés Bello. Held on World Down Syndrome Day, the event aims to unify the inclusive sports community and boost participation in the 2027 World Games in Santiago.
A historic moment took place at the Instituto Profesional AIEP of Universidad Andrés Bello with the launch of the First National Registry for Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities, led by Special Olympics Chile. Presented on World Down Syndrome Day, the initiative will unify Chile's inclusive sports community and aid qualifications for the Special Olympics World Games Santiago 2027, set for October. Special Olympics Chile president Carolina Picasso stated: “Today we mark a historic and unprecedented milestone for our country. For the first time in Chile, we bring to life the First National Registry for Athletes with Intellectual Disabilities. With this, we open a door that has been closed for too long to thousands of people. This registry is not just a database. It is an opportunity. It is recognition. It is an act of justice”.. The event featured officials including Sports Minister Natalia Duco, Government General Secretariat Minister Mara Sedini, National Institute of Sports Director Lorena Castillo, and SENADIS National Director Pedro Goic. Mara Sedini said: “I wish you all the success in the world and want you to know that you can count on us because this is something unique and a symbol, as well as an honor and pride for our country”.. Natalia Duco added: “This is a very important milestone because it points toward the great goal that many people with intellectual disabilities practice sports. This is a first step and will be a legacy that remains even after the Special Olympics World Games Santiago 2027”.. The campaign features five prominent athletes: Martín Soto, Javiera Saldaña, Felipe Soto, Vicente Urrutia, and Paulina Villalobos. Martín Soto urged: “I invite you to join this historic registry. You could even qualify for the World Games. We want all people with intellectual disabilities to practice physical activity at least twice a week”.. To register, visit www.olimpiadasespecialeschile.org, 'regístrate' section, or call +569 2811 7796.
