The 12th Provincial Games for Persons with Disabilities & 1st Special Olympics Games of Shandong Province, kicked off in Linyi

The 12th Provincial Games for Persons with Disabilities & 1st Special Olympics Games of Shandong Province, kicked off in Linyi on September 17. It marks the first time for Linyi to host a provincial‑level comprehensive sports event for people with disabilities.

Under the theme Chasing dreams in Yimeng, sharing splendid moments, this grand gala combines paralympic and special olympic competitions for the first time in Shandong. The event features 21 major categories and 924 sub‑events, drawing more than 2,000 athletes from 17 delegations across the province.

The opening ceremony consists of a prelude Listening to the voice of blooming flowers, three chapters Chasing Dreams, Striving, Soaring, and the closing segment Blooming. Integrating sign‑language shows, chorus, dance, wire stunts and immersive light‑and‑shadow effects, the performance interprets self‑respect, self‑confidence, self‑improvement and self‑reliance of athletes with disabilities, and delivers values of equality, participation, sharing and inclusion.

A full set of barrier‑free facilities, volunteer service teams and tailored support schemes have been put in place to guarantee smooth competitions. The games will run until September 21, showcasing the power of life and sportsmanship across Yimeng land.

Editor：韩蒙蒙