Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

On the afternoon of June 16, President Ma Ying-jeou handed the team flag to the Chinese Taipei team that will soon embark for Greece to take part in the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games. The president expressed support for the athletes and called on them to win distinction for the nation.

The president remarked that many countries already regard participation in the Special Olympics as a sign of a nation's maturity and level of civilization. Of the world's 195 nations, 185 will compete in this year's event, which points to the importance of the Special Olympics, he said, noting that this year's Special Olympics will feature events in 22 sports. The 65-person team from Chinese Taipei will participate in 11 events. The president commented that athletes from the ROC have traditionally done quite well and that he hopes the assistance provided by the Cabinet-level Sports Affairs Council and the efforts of the athletes themselves will result once more in a strong showing.

The president stated that over 20,000 people will participate in the Special Olympics this year, including athletes, coaches, family members, and workers. The team from the ROC will not only take part in the various competitions, but will also have the opportunity to engage in people-to-people diplomacy, he said. The theme of the Special Olympics is "let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt ." The president commented that every competition involves winning and losing, and the most important thing is to have the courage to compete. There is a feeling of achievement as long as you try your best, he said.

The president stated that the Sports Affairs Council has extended the training period for athletes and is continuing to improve training centers in an effort to help competitors train better. President Ma encouraged athletes to take part in all sorts of competitive events and friendly matches, thereby inspiring people of all ages to participate in physical activities and encouraging even more mentally and physically disabled persons to join in.