Inclusion in the spotlight: Annabelle shines at the gymnastics festival in Leipzig!

Inclusion in the spotlight: Annabelle shines at the gymnastics festival in Leipzig!

On June 2, 2025, a remarkable competition for people with intellectual disabilities took place as part of the International German Gymnastics Festival in Leipzig. Among the participants was the talented Annabelle Tschech-Löffler from Borna, who took part in the international all-around competition for women with her father Markus, who supported her. After a bumpy first jump, Annabelle improved on her second attempt and received a high score from the judges for her performance. Overall, German athletes such as Luisa Egersdörfer, Sanna Lotte Fleißner, Amelie Janßen, Bianca Becker, Lea Sofie Cranz and Leonie Schmid as well as international participants from Finland, Switzerland, Lithuania and Norway took part. Another men's competition took place at the same time in a different sports hall, where German athletes Moritz Alexander and Fabian Gassen competed.

Over 80,000 athletes and 750,000 spectators flocked to the Saxon metropolis for the gymnastics festival. Annabelle Tschech-Löffler, who serves as an ambassador for inclusion, highlights the importance of recognition and appreciation for all athletes. “Inclusion is more than just participation; it’s about mutual support and respect,” emphasizes Markus Tschech-Löffler. This commitment was underlined by the “Inclusion Wins” competition, which included all people, regardless of their abilities.

Inclusion in focus

The special importance of inclusion, which Kati Brenner, the managing director of the gymnastics festival, emphasized, is reflected in the atmosphere of the competitions. Applause and support flowed both ways, and the gymnasts, with and without disabilities, cheered each other on. Annabelle and her international sports colleagues enjoyed the audience's recognition.

The competition lasted four and a half hours. At the end, the athletes celebrated their joint success with dances and the exchange of pins. Annabelle Tschech-Löffler was able to achieve an impressive second place in the all-around competition and was rewarded with a medal and a certificate. Tim Fuhse, SOD national coach, also expressed himself very positively about the Special Olympics competitions and the appreciation that the athletes received.

A strong sign for the community

Other competitions in various sports such as judo and karate were also held, and prominent athletes from the Paralympic and Olympic movements were on hand, further reinforcing the spirit of the gymnastics festival. Events organized by inclusion ambassador Annabelle and the special competition sent a strong signal for the coexistence of people with and without disabilities.

The successful premiere of the Special Olympics competitions in Leipzig impressively shows how important inclusion is in sport. Everyone involved contributed to an unforgettable event that focused on joy, competition and community.