India feels quite proud as two of our athletes won medals at the Rio Olympics. With the largest ever contingent and a small trickle of medals, there is enough media coverage to keep us glued and aware of every small bit happening at the Olympics. But did you know that we won a whopping 173 medals at the Special Olympics held in Los Angeles last year?
With over 6500 athletes from across 177 countries across the world and the Indian contingent with 275 athletes and 14 disciplines, we didn't really hear much about the game or the athletes. Maybe the reason is that we don't focus on sports outside of cricket or maybe the reason is that these were 'Special' Olympics and people didn't think too much of these wins. Whatever the reason it is time to create some fanfare around these athletes who are winners.
Held in Los Angeles, this was the first time, US has hosted the Special Olympics at such a large scale! The 9 day long event happened from July 25 to August 2, 2015. Though the medal tally was led by the US, India ranked third in the tally!
The whole nation should give them the attention they truly deserve! Winning 47 Golds, 54 Silvers and 72 Bronze medals, the contingent returned to India all happy and proud!
Aquatics, Athletics. Badminton, Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Marathon, Powerlifting, Roller skating, Sailing, Softball, Table Tennis, Gymnastics, Golf etc. are some of the sports that are included in the Special Olympics.
And how much do we know about these players?
Disha Mary poses with her Silver Medal won in swimming! Have you even heard her name?
The Indian Team
Sharing the joy, the basketball team poses for us Indians to share their happiness and there was nobody on Twitter giving them any comments.
Ranvir Singh
The cheerful smile after winning a GOLD is indeed beautiful! Yes, but did you applause?
Thanking the people of India for all the accolades he received for securing a Gold!
Not only do we not give enough attention or resources to citizens with the potential to win big at the Olympics we completely ignore the heroes who actually win 173 medals for the country at the Special Olympics.
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