‘Proud’ day for Sheffield as city named Special Olympics host

Thousands of British athletes with learning disabilities will descend on the city in August 2017 for the five-day event.

The national games are held every two years, alternating between summer and winter games. It is the second time Sheffield has beaten off stiff competition from other UK cities to be picked as host, having first enjoyed the privilege 21 years ago.

Competitors will go head-to-head at sporting venues across the city, many of which were built for the World Student Games in 1991, which landed the city in hundreds of millions of pounds in debt.

Sheffield Council has reassured residents there is no financial risk this time round, despite agreeing to underwrite the to the tune of £60,000, and it expects the spectacle will bring a £1.5m boost to the city economy.

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, MP for Sheffield Hallam, said: “I’m proud Sheffield has been selected as the next host city. The games are so exceptional because they are helping to change attitudes for the better and show how the power of sport can provide opportunities for us all. I’m confident everyone who gets involved will be inspired by some of the stories and successes of the athletes taking part.”

Around 2,000 athletes are expected to take part, while an estimated 5,000 family members and supporters, 500 voluntary coaches will also travel to the city in three years’ time.

Participants will miss out on the chance to compete at the Don Valley Stadium, where Sheffield-born Olympic gold medal winner Jessica Ennis-Hill began her athletic career. The 25,000-capacity venue was demolished last year and the Woodburn Road facility, which can seat around 150 spectators, opened in its place.

Coun Julie Dore, leader of Sheffield Council, said: “The decision is testament to the fact that Sheffield is a great sporting city. However, this isn’t just about places, but about people. Sheffielders are well known for their love of sport, in what is our welcoming and inclusive city.”

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