DOS HWM Bocce Event a Huge Hit!

The DOS HWM Bocce Event held on Wednesday, 25 March, was a thrilling display of teamwork and sportsmanship, showcasing the talents of athletes with intellectual disabilities paired with dignitaries, sponsors, CIG senior staff, and other staff. The event, held at the Lions Club of Grand Cayman, saw 2 SOCI athletes’ team up with notable figures, including Hon. Minister for Youth Sports Culture & Heritage Isaac Rankine, who won the bronze medal alongside Youth Services Unit Program Coordinator James Myles.

Lions President Siri Jones-Russell and Lions Member Cordella Cholette took top honors, winning the gold medal.

“In my tenure, I always wanted to be involved in events such as these; I am so happy that Lions Club of Grand Cayman was able to sponsor the venue for this event – it was a wonderful experience and so much fun!” said Lions President Siri.

Refreshments provided by in-kind sponsors Welly’s added to the festive atmosphere, with 2 of their staff members joining forces with 2 athletes to also make up a team, making the event a memorable one.

The event drew notable attendees, aside from Hon Minister for Sports Isaac Rankine. In attendance was Parliamentary Secretary Ms. Heather Bodden, and Deputy Premier Garry Rutty, and his wife Mrs. Rutty who stopped in for a period. DOS Acting Assistant Director Redver Ebanks was also present and played on a team along with Head Coach, Mrs. Lavern Ebanks, winning silver.

“The athletes demonstrated incredible skill and teamwork,” said DOS organisers. “We’re grateful to our sponsors Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, Department of Sports, Lions Club of Grand Cayman, Welly’s, and CUC.”

“The inaugural Bocce competition for HWM proved to be a showcase of talent from trained Special Olympics athletes and the introduction of the fun, skill and teamwork of a new sport to the unified participants. Everyone enjoyed the experience and walked away with medals and memories that last. We hope this event with become recurring on the calendar about every other year as we leave room for other Special Olympics sports to be considered.” Said National Head Bocce Coach Nicole Thompson.

The event would not have been possible without the huge dedication of SOCI National Director Darrel Rankine who coordinated the setup of the courts assisted by PWD team, he also organised the SOCI athletes who participated. Thank you to National Head Bocce Coach Nicole Thompson for organising the tournament and SOCI volunteers. Without the capable volunteers from DOS CFG program and SOCI we would not have been able to run the event smoothly.

The success of the event is a testament to the power of inclusion and teamwork. #GiveToGain!

A list of winning teams & medal placements will be announced in another press release!