Special Olympics event at Riders

Leicester Riders and Leicester & District Special Olympics Basketball Club are staging a Special Olympics regional tournament on Saturday.

The event is part of Riders' support for the East Midlands basketball teams competing in the Special Olympic Games in Leicester in July.

"This should be a fantastic event and we're delighted to help," said Riders general manager Russell Levenston.

The tournament is at the John Sandford Sports Centre between 1400-1730 BST.

All athletes taking part in the Special Olympics are required to compete in a regional tournament.

It will be a day to remember

Roger Sharpe, East Midlands Special Olympics Basketball coach

Thirty-two athletes with learning disabilities from Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, plus their coaches and escorts, will compete in the event, which will be followed by the Riders' BBL Championship match against Plymouth Raiders at 1900 BST.

Levenston added: "We are looking forward to seeing them in action as they prepare for the Special Olympics this summer."

East Midlands Special Olympics Basketball coach Roger Sharpe said: "I very much appreciate the help and support that the Leicester Riders have given us.

"I know the athletes will be excited about playing on the very court they will be using in the summer.

"They will also be presented with their medals and trophies by members of the Riders' team and have the privilege of watching them play in the evening. It will be a day to remember."