Special Olympics Malta will host the first edition of the National Beach Games 2025 to mark its 25th anniversary. The event will take place on Saturday 5th July 2025 at Pretty Bay, Birżebbuġa, from 09:00 to 14:00. This national celebration of inclusion will feature a varied sporting programme including beach soccer, swimming, sailing, basketball and bocce.

Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation Minister Clifton Grima highlighted the unifying power of sport, noting its ability to help individuals demonstrate their potential regardless of the challenges they face. He described the event as an example of sport fostering hope, friendship and inclusion. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued investment in sports infrastructure and initiatives that are accessible to all.

Inclusion and Volunteering Minister Julia Farrugia underlined Special Olympics Malta’s dedication to embracing diversity in sport. She mentioned recent investments in accessible facilities and specialised programmes such as the Motor Activity Training Programme. She stated that the government is working to ensure equal sporting opportunities with dignity and respect for people with disabilities across Malta.

Dr Lydia Abela, President of Special Olympics Malta, reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to provide diverse sporting opportunities that contribute to the holistic development of people with intellectual disabilities. For the first time, thanks to partnerships with Yachting Malta, the Birżebbuġa Sailing Club and the Malta Sailing Federation, athletes will be introduced to sailing.

Dr Abela encouraged the public to support the event and the organisation, which serves over 2,500 athletes across a range of sports.

#MaltaDaily