Herbalife, a global nutrition company, held a rousing homecoming reception for 89 Special Olympics athletes. Returning home with a haul of 37 gold medals; 10 silver medals and 26 bronze medals, participating athletes were recognised for their excellent display of strength, grit and courage in 8 events at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2017 held in Austria. Champions Mary Kom, Saina Nehwal and Heena Sidhu were special guests at the felicitation ceremony.
Ajay Khanna, Vice President & Country Head- Herbalife International India said, "We are very proud to see the magnificent performances by our Special Olympics athletes at the World Winter Games 2017." We are looking forward to taking our partnership with Special Olympics Bharat to a whole new level, and to continuing our work in helping athletes discover their strengths, skills and successes, he added.
Air Marshal, Denzil Keelor, CEO- Special Olympics Bharat, said, "Special Olympics and Herbalife share a common vision of giving equal chances to people with intellectual disabilities, especially athletes, to become productive citizens. All these athletes need is equality and respect, not because of their disabilities but for their abilities".
MC Mary Kom, said "These athletes have tremendous potential that has yet to be fully realised. These athletes are really special and will always make India proud".
Special Olympics have been gaining visibility and momentum over the years. What these athletes need more have right now is the encouragement, support and recognition by the public. With a partner like Herbalife, I can see things getting better and I wish them success in their future endeavours", added Heena Sidhu.
"Olympics are the dream of an athlete and a medal in Olympics is the crowning glory moment for the athlete. These Special athletes have made the nation proud. I know how hard it is to win a single medal for the nation and you won 73, you all are a source of inspiration for us", said Saina Nehwal.
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