Special Olympics Team Canada members ended their journey with a bang on Sunday.
They joined fellow Games participants from around the world for the Closing Ceremony at the historic Brandenburg Gate. The celebration featured live music performances, opportunities for athletes to meet and mingle and an impressive fireworks finale.
Members of the Canadian contingent worked so hard to prepare for Games, and we couldn’t be prouder of their performance. They racked up medals, set personal bests, made lifelong friendships and inspired with their sportsmanship.
We are so grateful to everyone who has supported Special Olympics Team Canada. You helped make dreams come true for 89 hardworking athletes — and empowered them to show the world what they can do.
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SunDay COMPETITION HIGHLIGHTS
- Rhythmic gymnasts were part of a finale showcase that featured athletes from across the world. All members of the Canadian contingent performed for a cheering crowd that included Special Olympics Chairman Tim Shriver.
- Athletics concluded with the 400m. Canadian athletes gave their all and made their teammates proud as they wrapped up competition for Special Olympics Team Canada.
IN The spotlight
A highlight from the Closing Ceremony was the parade of sign bearers representing the 190 delegations.
Carrying a country’s sign is a huge honour, and Special Olympics Team Canada selected rhythmic gymnast Patricia Colgan and swimming coach Jackie Powell.
A winner of multiple medals in Berlin, Colgan inspired her teammates with her great attitude, personal growth and dedication to her sport.
“Pat has developed so much throughout the past year and really shined during competition. She knows our cheer and is always the first person ready to chant it,” says Chef de Mission Susan Lamboo.
As coach of the high-performing swim team, Powell is dedicated to supporting athletes and helping motivate them to reach their potential.
“We chose Jackie because of her unbelievable spirit. She can always be seen with an amazing wig and dressed head to toe in Canada gear,” says Lamboo.
Final medal count
Thank you volunteers
From Munich to Berlin, World Games volunteers were absolute rockstars!
Thank you for making these World Games possible. Your hard work and hospitality created life-changing experiences for athletes across the planet.
photo of the day
FOLLOW THE TEAM ON SOCIAL
Keep up with daily Games highlights and behind-the-scenes moments with Special Olympics Team Canada by following @SpecialOCanada on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Please share to help spotlight the success of our Canadian athletes overseas and build awareness for the Special Olympics movement.