20 Special Olympics athletes to represent UAE at BLAST Premier World Final

ABU DHABI, 7th December, 2022 (WAM) — The UAE’s Special Olympics athletes have spoken about how gaming has helped them improve their skills in their everyday lives, as a group of 20 Special Olympics athletes look forward to attending this month’s BLAST Premier World Final, held in Abu Dhabi on 17-18 December.

The tournament is organised by BLAST Premier in partnership with AD Gaming – a pioneering gaming and esports initiative, and part of BLAST’s ongoing efforts to grow the gaming landscape and attract wider audiences of different nationalities and abilities.

Charlotte Kenny, Managing Director of BLAST Premier, said, “We are delighted to be hosting the Special Olympics athletes at the BLAST Premier World Final this month. Gaming and esports is such a unique space due to the accessibility it provides to players and fans.

“Their visit will provide an exclusive for them to experience an incredible global esports tournament on their own doorstep. By going behind-the-scenes and meeting the world’s best esports players, they will be able to get an insight into the world of competitive gaming along with the opportunities and experiences that come with it.”

Salma Al Salami, 18, one of the esports athletes, said, “One of the key aspects when it comes to FIFA is that you need to create your own strategies and tactics, so I’ve been able to think logically and develop my problem-solving skills – aspects that I carry over when I play football myself.

“I really enjoy gaming and the Special Olympics are doing a great job in giving us opportunities to play and meet new people while showcasing my skills for sports and hobbies that I love.”

Ahmed Al Jailani, 33, stated, “I started off by playing with my siblings and I really enjoyed gaming and the thought process that occurs when playing a game as well the development in my skills when playing a particular video game.

“You need to think differently on how to win especially when I like playing FIFA or racing games while I am now making quick and accurate decisions and working together as a team – all of which are helping me in my everyday life. The support I get from the Special Olympics is great, and I am very thankful to them for providing opportunities to follow my passion.”