Disabled riders will be attending the first Jogos de Quelfes Equestrian this Friday, April 22 at the Pinetrees Riding Centre in Almancil.
The Quelfes Games, destined for children, have been held in the Algarve for the last six years and consist of sporting events such as athletics, football and basketball, and are held in various boroughs throughout the Algarve. The Olympic ideal of sportsmanship, team playing and fair play are important elements in the ethics of the games.
This is the first time an equestrian event, and destined for the disabled, has been included under the banner of Jogos de Quelfes. Founder of the games, Gustavo Marcos, said he was delighted to include an equestrian event that will be “challenging and a lot of fun”.
The organising team is made up of special needs teachers from the AV school in Almancil, the APPC (Cerebral Palsy School in Faro) and Pinetrees Riding Centre. Loulé Council is also supporting the games by providing equipment and in the presentation of the medals.
The event will start at 10am with team games on horseback to be followed by lunch and the prize-giving ceremony at 2pm.
The event will complement the Special Olympics regional competition, planned for May 5, which will cater for those with mental impairment but who have more equestrian skills.
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