5th World Abilympics opens in Prague
This week Prague hosts the fifth World Abilympics - in which physically and mentally handicapped people compete in a number of wide-ranging activities. It's a first not only for the Czech Republic but also for Europe - as the Abilympics have never been held on the continent before. Alena Skodova has the details:
The first World Abilympics were held in 1981 in Japan, then in 1985 in Colombia, four years later in Hong Kong and most recently in the Australian city of Perth. The 2000 Abilympics will open on Monday at Prague's Vystaviste Exhibition Grounds, and some 800 disabled people from around the world will take part. Organiser Marta Kralova gave me a rundown of the activities at this year's event. This year's event is held under the auspices of Czech President Vaclav Havel. It lasts until Friday, and visitors can watch all the events at the Krizik pavilion free of charge.
