After four days of inspiration, motivation and unity, the 2010 Special Olympics Global Congress ended with a spectacular closing ceremony and evening of activities.

The day began with an inspiring panel of guests who spoke from the heart about building communities and how their experiences can relate to Special Olympics. Moderated by California First Lady and Special Olympics International Board Member Maria Shriver, the panel covered how society can work to encourage accepting societies for Special Olympics athletes.

The panelists included: Aaron Williams, Director of the Peace Corps; Mayor of San Juan, Puerto Rico, Jorge Santini; Congresswoman Na Kyung-won of South Korea; and Special Olympics Egypt athlete Dina Galal. First Lady of Egypt Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak provided a passionate video message about her dedication to the movement.

Immediately following the panel, a group of young people came to the stage to offer the youth perspective on the subject. The panel included Global Youth Advisory Council and young leaders from across the Special Olympics movement including:  Namibia Unified Partners Rosevindi Tsei-Tsei-Mou and Hilma Petrus; Poland Unified Partners Pawel Dulski and Marcin Wolski; New Jersey (USA) Unified Partners Jason Newbury and Jenni Newbury; Youth Activation Council Members.

After lunch, the congress closed with an inspiring ceremony and tribute to Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Brady Lum and the Special Olympics Regional Managing Directors presented reports from the track session where most of the hands-on work of the Strategic Plan happened. Tim Shriver then recognized some first followers -- or “founders” --  of the movement including:  Monty Castevens, SOFL;  Hector Cueva, SO Ecuador; Dr. Shi Derong, SO Shanghai; Air Marshal Denzil Keelor, SO India; James Kimonye, SO Kenya; and Alessandro Palazzotti, SO Italy.

The final “founder” recognized was Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Amina, who was presented with a torch for her incredible work and dedication. Her Royal Highess then got another big surprise – a live performance by her favorite band, Bruno Cheno and Friends. Special Olympics athletes and delegates jumped up on the stage, dancing and celebrating together, beneath a dazzling light show.

Global Congress delegates later headed for the El Harti stadium for a Sports Experience, bringing together athletes from around the world, with a spotlight on football, table tennis and other games. A few adventurous board members took part in an exhibition match, including Eddie Barbanell, Stephen Carter, Kevin Farr, Bob Norbie, David Rutherford, Ossie Kilkenny and Ayman Wahab. SOI staff also showed they “got game,” including Greg Epperson, Doug Stevens and Peter Wheeler.

Next, it was the Ministry of Tourism’s turn to honor the delegates and athletes with a banquet in an exotic setting, which began as the sun set behind a grove of palm trees and a long line of dining tents. Sights included a vast spread of delicacies, along with Moroccan horsemen in traditional robes, camels and belly dancers.

At the Congress, Managing Director of each region reported different aspects of the suggestions gathered at the event

Tim Shriver (right four) visited SOEA booth at the Congress with some of the SOEA delegates

Dr. Dicken Yung at the booth of SOEA, meeting some of the board members of the programs and delegates members

The delegates celebrated at the booth. SO athletes, family leaders and volunteer representative enjoyed the gathering and presentation at the Congress

SO athlete Huang Ming Ming made friends with other athletes

 SO athlete Chen Wei Chieh enjoyed the friendship building

SO athlete Ao Ieong In enjoyed every opportunity to interact with SO leaders

Korea Congress Woman Mrs. Na, Kyoung Won (right five) announced the committment of SO Korea to host 2013 World Winter Games