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 Puerto Rico Athlete with Down Syndrome Competes in Half IRONMAN
Special Olympics Puerto Rico athlete David “El Delfin Boricua” Torres Rivera became the first person with Down syndrome to participate in the IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Rico.
1 Min Read
Special Olympics Gymnast Dreams of Gold at 2022 USA Games
For Special Olympics athlete, Chris Teich, confidence ties directly back to a key aspect of the Special Olympics Athlete Oath: Let me win but if I cannot win let me be brave in the attempt
2 Min Read
Spreading Awareness in Argentina: Pablo and Ana's Story
A team of Special Olympics athletes in Argentina are the leaders of a new digital magazine.
3 Min Read
Health Screening Changes a Life: Jad’s Story
When Jad was born in Thailand and diagnosed with Down syndrome, his mother was overcome with sadness and disappointment.
1 Min Read
The Intersection Between Badminton & Autism
World Autism Awareness Day is celebrated around the world on 2 April and designated by the United Nations to highlight the need to help improve the quality of life of those with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives as an integral part of society.
4 Min Read
Michigan Volunteers “Treat” Customers with Cookies for a Cause
There’s a “sweet” business booming in Detroit these days.
2 Min Read
Special Olympics Colorado Athlete Tania Wright Selected for USA Games in First Year Competing
Tania Wright was looking for activities to do with her best friend, Kimberly Henry, when she stumbled upon Special Olympics.
2 Min Read
Advocate Jennifer Wardlow Is Making the World a Better Place for Fellow Special Olympics Athletes
Jennifer Wardlow loved collecting pins at the 1995 Special Olympics World Games in New Haven, Connecticut. A staple of major Special Olympics competitions, the pins are designed to represent the athletes’ states and/or countries.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Gambia Making Headway in Africa
Over 5.5 million athletes with intellectual disabilities participate in Special Olympics programs around the world, and the number of nations with at least one Special Olympics chapter is constantly growing.
1 Min Read
Kayla Cornell Has a Message for Fellow Special Olympics Athletes: Let’s Get Healthy Together
Kayla Cornell is the head chef in her cooking class for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
4 Min Read
Special Olympics Canada Athlete Excels in Gym & Kitchen
Special Olympics Canada athlete Michael Bandler, a four-time SO World Games medalist, has a passion for the culinary arts and uses his skills in the kitchen to help him train.
2 Min Read
Isaac’s Story: Athlete Advocate for the WHO QualityRights Initiative in Ghana
For many years, there have been human-rights violations—plus inadequate care and support—that deeply affected the lives of people with intellectual disabilities in Ghana.
1 Min Read