The Caribbean is abuzz with excitement as Guadeloupe gears up to host the region’s inaugural Special Olympics 3×3 unified basketball tournament from November 13 to 16. Supported by Special Olympics Caribbean, Special Olympics International, and key partners such as the Lions Club International Foundation, Aruna Oswal Trust, and the Government of Guadeloupe, the event will provide a platform for athletes with intellectual disabilities to demonstrate their talents.
This unified tournament is designed to foster social inclusion by pairing individuals with and without intellectual disabilities in competitive sports, thereby raising awareness and encouraging societal change. Another milestone for Guadeloupe, a French-speaking island in the eastern Caribbean, will be the hosting of the symbolic Law Enforcement Torch Run, which will officially inaugurate the event.
Guy Vala, National Director of Special Olympics Guadeloupe, expressed his pride in the meticulous planning that has brought the event to life. ‘After countless anxious moments and sleepless nights, the fruits of our labor are finally taking shape, promising a remarkable gathering,’ he said. He also highlighted the dedication of his young, dynamic, and motivated organizing committee, who worked tirelessly to create an event that unites enthusiasts, families, and supporters of their shared values.
The tournament will feature unified delegations from Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St Kitts & Nevis, St Maarten, and Trinidad & Tobago, with Guadeloupe fielding two teams. Lorna Bell, Executive Director of Special Olympics Caribbean, commended Guadeloupe for hosting the event and praised the overwhelming support from partners. She emphasized the significance of inclusion, stating that the event transcends language and cultural barriers, uniting the Caribbean through sport, compassion, and shared purpose.
Bell added, ‘Each delegation will showcase athletes and unified partners playing side by side, proving that sport is a universal language that knows no boundaries.’