Български
SPORT
#SPORT Without Borders – An Inclusive International Sports Camp in Kardzhali
05.04.2026
Kardzhali has become the venue for one of the most inspiring inclusive sports events in the region - an international camp for people with intellectual disabilities, organized as part of the #SPORT project - Strengthening Potentials through Opportunities, Respect, and Team-spirit, co-funded by the European Union’s Erasmus+ program. From April 2-5, 2026, the camp brought together 30 athletes - 15 from Kardzhali and 15 from Turkey - who, through sports, built not only physical skills but also friendships, confidence, and a sense of belonging. The camp was organized in partnership between the Bulgarian Sports Development Association and the Turkish organization Kargenc Club, bringing together the efforts of numerous institutions and experts from both countries in the name of inclusion through sports.
The camp participants were officially welcomed by Veselina Tihomirova, Deputy Mayor of the Municipality of Kardzhali, during the opening of the sports activities on April 3, 2026, at the renovated modern sports complex of SU “Vladimir Dimitrov - Maystora” Kardzhali, where a symbolic start was given to the joint activities. The following day, April 4, 2026, the group was welcomed at the new swimming complex in the town of Dzhebel by the municipality’s representative Ali Mehmed, Director of the “General Administration” Department - a gesture that clearly underscored the local government’s commitment to the development of inclusive sports and support for international initiatives.
Camp #SPORT is an example of good practice that brought together local authorities, the legislative branch, local businesses, and the educational, sports, and civil sectors in partnership, with the support of European programs, Bulgarian diplomacy, and international partners, and the event served as an example for the school’s students and local volunteers, who actively participated in supporting children with special needs.
The #SPORT project aims to promote inclusive sports and create real opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to actively participate in sports activities, while strengthening the capacity of organizations and professionals in this field. Through international camps like the one in Kardzhali, the initiative promotes intercultural exchange, social inclusion, and the personal development of participants.
The camp program was intensive and diverse - ranging from team and individual sports such as soccer, flag football, bocce, floor hockey, and various sports games, to swimming activities in Dzhebel. The most important part, however, took place beyond the sports fields - participants traveled, explored new cultures, built social skills, and discovered their own potential. The camp became a space where everyone felt accepted, confident, and inspired - a true “mission in action.”
The event was hosted by the "Sunny Kids" Sports Club for People with Disabilities in Kardzhali, and the participants stayed at the "Makaza" Hotel, which was also a key partner in the organization. The events took place in Kardzhali and Dzhebel with the active partnership of and the commitment of the municipalities of Kardzhali and Dzhebel, which not only provided access to sports facilities but also ensured comprehensive logistical and organizational support for the camp. A key role was also played by the team of volunteers, as well as the experts in the field of Adapted Physical Activity and Sport from the National Sports Academy “Vasil Levski,” who contributed their professionalism to the high-quality conduct of the sports activities and the creation of a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
The Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Turkey, under the leadership of His Excellency Mr. Angel Cholakov, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Turkey, which provided key assistance in securing visas and the participation of the Turkish group - support without which the event would not have been possible in this format.
Camp #SPORT is the result of the joint efforts of organizations, institutions, and local communities from Bulgaria and Turkey - ranging from sports clubs and experts to local authorities, diplomatic missions, and partners on the ground. It is precisely this synergy that transforms the initiative into more than just an event - into a model for sustainable cooperation and real impact. Because when many stakeholders rally behind a common cause, sports become a bridge that connects people, breaks down barriers, and creates real opportunities for everyone.
Camp #SPORT is an example of good practice that brought together local authorities, the legislative branch, local businesses, and the educational, sports, and civil sectors in partnership, with the support of European programs, Bulgarian diplomacy, and international partners, and the event served as an example for the school’s students and local volunteers, who actively participated in supporting children with special needs.
The #SPORT project aims to promote inclusive sports and create real opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to actively participate in sports activities, while strengthening the capacity of organizations and professionals in this field. Through international camps like the one in Kardzhali, the initiative promotes intercultural exchange, social inclusion, and the personal development of participants.
The camp program was intensive and diverse - ranging from team and individual sports such as soccer, flag football, bocce, floor hockey, and various sports games, to swimming activities in Dzhebel. The most important part, however, took place beyond the sports fields - participants traveled, explored new cultures, built social skills, and discovered their own potential. The camp became a space where everyone felt accepted, confident, and inspired - a true “mission in action.”
The event was hosted by the "Sunny Kids" Sports Club for People with Disabilities in Kardzhali, and the participants stayed at the "Makaza" Hotel, which was also a key partner in the organization. The events took place in Kardzhali and Dzhebel with the active partnership of and the commitment of the municipalities of Kardzhali and Dzhebel, which not only provided access to sports facilities but also ensured comprehensive logistical and organizational support for the camp. A key role was also played by the team of volunteers, as well as the experts in the field of Adapted Physical Activity and Sport from the National Sports Academy “Vasil Levski,” who contributed their professionalism to the high-quality conduct of the sports activities and the creation of a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
The Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Turkey, under the leadership of His Excellency Mr. Angel Cholakov, Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to Turkey, which provided key assistance in securing visas and the participation of the Turkish group - support without which the event would not have been possible in this format.
Camp #SPORT is the result of the joint efforts of organizations, institutions, and local communities from Bulgaria and Turkey - ranging from sports clubs and experts to local authorities, diplomatic missions, and partners on the ground. It is precisely this synergy that transforms the initiative into more than just an event - into a model for sustainable cooperation and real impact. Because when many stakeholders rally behind a common cause, sports become a bridge that connects people, breaks down barriers, and creates real opportunities for everyone.
