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Tamil Nadu - Chennai

They took the plunge with enthusiasm

Special Correspondent

30 youngsters from special schools take part in State-level swimming contest

— Photo: R.RAGU

On the mark: Special children participated in a State-level swimming competition at the Aquatic Complex in Velachery on Friday.

CHENNAI: The aquatic complex in Velachery was bustling with activity on Friday with dozens of children testing their swimming skills.

Around 30 youngsters from special schools such as Mathru Mandir, Down’s Syndrome Association of Tamil Nadu, Pathway, Anbagam and Vidivali from across the State, took part in a swimming competition.

The event was sponsored by Navy foundation Chennai Chapter and Rotary Club, Central.

Those who perform well will be given further training to participate in the national meet to be held early next year. “This event will prepare them for the Special Olympics Summer Games to be held in Athens, Greece in 2011,” said A.D.S.N. Prasad, area director of the Special Olympics Bharath – Tamil Nadu.

At Friday’s event, children aged 8 and above and adults were eligible. “Sporting has therapeutic value. The recognition they receive gives them confidence,” Mr. Prasad said. “We do not prevent anyone from entering the pool. All children are welcome to participate,” said Mr. Prasad. Some participated in ‘assisted swimming’ and ‘walk in the pool’ events. The older students, trained in all the four swimming strokes, completed the 25m and 50m events. “It is difficult to get them in to water at first. But once they do, they learn to swim,” said a parent and special educator, Sandhya Krishnamurthy. Her daughter Arathi won a medal on Friday.

At the pool, the children were keenly observed by the sporting fraternity. Julia Vasanthi, former State hockey player and a committee member, was pleased with their participation. “It is not easy for these children. They need seven days to be put into water and they need two to three years to gain speed,” said Paul Devasahayam, referee and coach. Schools may contact Mr. Prasad on 27500174/27500225 for details.

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