Special Olympics GB And Sure Develop Partnership For First National Winter Games

Sure has reinforced its commitment to getting more young people moving by becoming an event partner of the first Special Olympics Great Britain National Winter Games, building on an existing three year partnership established through the Sure Breaking Limits Programme.

As a registered charity, working across England, Scotland and Wales, Special Olympics GB and Sure share the same belief that sport has the power to transform the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities and it is the nation’s largest provider of sports training and competition in this area.

From 27 January to 3 February, it is bringing together 73 athletes with intellectual disabilities to participate in alpine skiing and ice-skating competitions in Folgaria, located in the northern Italian region Trentino-Alto Adige.

Colin Dyer, Chief Executive of Special Olympics GB, said: “Sure has been an active supporter of Special Olympics GB for several years through its Breaking Limits programme, which has given some incredible opportunities to our athletes.

“The opportunity to compete in national and international events can often be the inspiration for people with intellectual disabilities making significant changes in their lives, by developing new skill sets and confidence. However, these events could not happen without the backing of Sure and our partners.

“Delivering a national winter sports competition for our athletes overseas requires significant logistical challenges. We are very grateful to Sure and our partners for their support and look forward to working with them on a fantastic event.”

Similar to the goal of Special Olympics GB, Sure believes in the power of movement. It’ sport for development programme, the Breaking Limits Programme, aims to inspire young people with the confidence to move by breaking down barriers to movement..

In 2023, through the programme, Sure gave athletes from Special Olympics Lincolnshire the opportunity to play on the hallowed turf of Stamford Bridge, home of Premier League football club Chelsea F.C and who are also partners with Sure, whilst athletes from Special Olympics Greater Manchester enjoyed a cricket coaching session led by stars of The Hundred team, Manchester Originals. The Breaking Limits Programme also supported the development of the new Special Olympics GB Sport Leader programme through its online training platform equipping coaches with the knowledge and tools to lead inclusive sports sessions for young people..

Kathryn Swallow, global brand lead for Sure, said, "We're delighted to share the news of our continued partnership with Special Olympics GB for the National Winter Games. Proudly expanding beyond the Breaking Limits Programme, we wholeheartedly support Special Olympics GB's National Winter Games, showcasing our shared commitment to driving sustainable social change through sport."

Special Olympics GB works with more than 6,600 children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Across England, Scotland and Wales its 95 accredited clubs provide opportunities in 27 sports, which are delivered by a devoted team of 3,800 volunteers.