Bahrain Special Olympics Team heads to Turin 2025 with high hopes

TDT | Manama

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The Bahrain Special Olympics team boarded their flight on Friday to Turin, Italy, bound for the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025, running from March 7 to 16.

It is a big moment for this tight-knit group, heading to one of the most celebrated events for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Leading the charge are Mahmoud Ali Mohsen and Rawan Ismail Al Saad, two athletes who’ve been training hard to compete in snowshoeing—a tough sport that’s all about grit and balance on icy ground.

They left Bahrain with a mix of nerves and excitement, carrying the kingdom’s flag into the global spotlight.

Prepared and Proud

Ahmed Hussain Makki, the team’s technical director, has been putting Mahmoud and Rawan through their paces, making sure they’re ready for the challenge ahead. These aren’t new faces—they’ve been part of Bahrain’s Special Olympics family for a while, and their dedication shows. Wafika Khalil Jamal, who’s heading up the delegation, couldn’t hide her optimism. “They’ve got the heart and the skill to do us proud,” she said, her voice steady with belief. “This is about showing what Bahrain can do on a stage like this.” Backing them up are Reza Sabt, the assistant head, and Khawla Al Busmait, the physio keeping everyone in fighting shape.

Turin’s Global Gathering

The Winter Games are massive—102 countries, over 1,500 athletes, and a lineup of sports from skiing to snowshoeing. Turin’s hosting for the first time, kicking things off on March 8 at the Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, with the closing ceremony a week later. It’s not just about medals; it’s about bringing people together, showing what’s possible, and celebrating every effort. With 2,000 volunteers, 1,000 coaches, and 100,000 fans expected, the atmosphere will be electric. For Mahmoud and Rawan, it’s a chance to race against the best and soak in a community that gets what they’re about.

Carrying Bahrain’s Spirit

The Special Olympics programme here has been quietly building something special, giving athletes like Mahmoud and Rawan a shot at the big time. As they step onto Turin’s snow, they’re not just chasing personal bests; they’re showing what Bahrain stands for. With Ramadan starting mid-event, their commitment feels even bigger— echoing the same drive that saw the kingdom rally behind the Gulf Cup win. Back home, people are watching, hoping for a performance that’ll spark the same kind of joy and togetherness.