Athletes
Athletes are the heart of Special Olympics. Our athletes are children and adults with intellectual disabilities from all around the world—5.6 million and counting! They are finding success, joy and friendship as part of our global community. They're also having lots of fun!
Special Olympics Europe Eurasia Youth Leadership Council Elects New Members
New generation of changemakers from across the region is ready to champion youth empowerment for the 2025 – 2026 period.
1 Min Read
A Full Court of Smiles, Special Olympics Iraq Learns the Importance of Oral Health at Special Olympics Healthy Athletes®
For the Special Olympics Iraq floorball team, success isn’t just measured by earning medals, it’s also about taking every opportunity to improve their health.
2 Min Read
Through the Lens in Turin
The Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy was an incredible experience that yielded thousands of magnificent moments.
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Alex Leimsider’s Journey from Budapest to Judo Gold
At just 17 years old, the Special Olympics Hungary judoka topped the podium at the Special Olympics Judo Festival in Switzerland.
1 Min Read
Seeing Success: Ji-Hua Li's Journey to Improved Vision at the Special Olympics World Winter Games
Special Olympics Chinese-Taipei athlete Ji-Hua knew the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 would be a transformative athletic opportunity, but beyond her goals for competition, she also had a secondary mission: improving her vision.
4 Min Read
From Namibia to Turin: A Journey of Resilience and Dreams
Special Olympics Namibia's journey to the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 was more than just a flight across continents–it was a leap toward new experiences, self-belief, and a future filled with expanded possibilities.
5 Min Read
Tears at the Finish Line as Dominika Becomes First Slovak Woman with Cerebral Palsy to Complete International Triathlon
On 20 May 2025, 19-year-old Dominika Medveďová from Brezno swam 750 metres, cycled 20 km and ran 5 km before crossing the finish line at the 4th Open European Special Olympics Triathlon Championships in Šamorín to become the first Slovak woman with cerebral palsy to complete an international triathlon.
3 Min Read
More Than A Game: How Football Transformed Rubén’s Life
The Special Olympics Madrid athlete shares how sport—and the support of a dedicated coach—helped him overcome personal challenges, dramatically improving his health, well-being and relationship.
2 Min Read
“Special Olympics was my Golden Ticket”—Anja Celebrates European Football Week 2025
Before joining Special Olympics, Anja Van Helden trained with other teams but she was always left on the sidelines on match day. Now, she is the heart of her Special Olympics Switzerland team for training sessions and matches alike—and she just loves it!
1 Min Read
Athlete Perspective: The Importance of Inclusive Research and Evaluation
Special Olympics Minnesota athlete, Kayte Barton shares her experience as an athlete, participant, and Athlete Advisory Board Member for Project ALL STAR, while highlighting Special Olympics’ unique role in advancing inclusive research and evaluation.
5 Min Read
No Longer on the Sidelines: Jack Healey's Journey to Special Olympics Football
Jack Healey, a 20-year-old from Berkshire in England, always nurtured a deep love for football.
2 Min Read
One for All and All for One: Team Mari
For Mari Holt, competing at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games is a long-awaited dream come true.
1 Min Read