Review of the Host Town Program 2023 in Jena

An enthusiastic Latvian delegation from the Special Olympics spent four eventful days in the city. Under the leadership of sports representative Vanessa Baum, the project team managed toorganizea colourful and varied programme for the guests.

Varied program in Jena

The visit began with a reception and picnic on the banks of the Saale and was organized in collaboration with the integrative, bilingual BiLLY daycare centre run by QuerWege e.V.. The atmosphere was warm and the participants enjoyed the idyllic surroundings and playing soccer together with the children and parents in attendance. The athletes ended the evening together with Mayor Thomas Nitzsche and Head of Sports Benjamin Koppe.

Various activities were on the agenda for the following days. The delegation visited the stadium and exchanged ideas with FC Carl Zeiss Jena. In addition , the athletes had the opportunity to complete a training session together with Jena sports clubs and set the final tone before the World Games. The group rounded off the evening of 13.06.2023 with small games, delicious food and pleasant conversations at the SBW Lebenshilfe Jena. The motivating words of greeting from Olympic champion Thomas Röhler were a small highlight.

The Latvian delegation at the Jena Disabled Sports Games

14.06.2023 began with the Jena Disabled Sports Games in Jena's Oberaue. In the afternoon, the athletes of the Latvian delegation opened the 8th Jena Donor Run. MayorChristian Gerlitz, the Latvian delegation's running sponsor, opened the event and Lord Mayor Thomas Nitzschetook the opportunity to complete a lap together with the athletes. This was followed by the inclusive disco in the Paradiescafé, to which the entire city community was invited. It was a cheerful evening where the athletes danced and celebrated together with the citizens.

The Disabled Sports Games in Jena are not only a testimony to ongoing inclusion work, but also a platform that gives people with disabilities the opportunity to develop their talents and strengths through sporting activities. The visit of the Latvian delegation to the Special Olmypics underlines the universal importance of sport and promotes intercultural exchange for a world of mutual respect and solidarity

added Benjamin Koppe, head of the sports department.

Farewell and best wishes for Berlin

On the last day of the trip, a tour of the city and a visit to the Jena Planetarium were on the agenda before the delegation set off for Berlin. Mayor Thomas Nitzsche bid farewell to the delegation with best wishesfor the upcoming competitions of the Special Olympic World Games Berlin 2023. The guests also thanked them for the unforgettable time and praised the warmth and hospitality of the people of Jena.

The Host Town Program 2023 in Jena was a wonderful experience. I am incredibly grateful for all the volunteers and the support of the project team who made the Latvian delegation's stay such a wonderful experience. It showed how important inclusion and sport are increating great memories and an atmosphere of togetherness!

Vanessa Baum, Sports Officer City of Jena.

The Host Town Program 2023 in Jena was a complete success and enabled a special encounter between the Latvian delegation of the Special Olympics and the city society. The diverse activities not only created wonderful memories, but also an atmosphere of inclusion and togetherness. Jena once again proved that it is a cosmopolitan and hospitable city that is committed to sport and the participation of all people.