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!
A Life Changed By Football: Said Abdel Lah
Said Abdel Lah’s life changed when he joined Plena Inclusión Ceuta, a partner of Special Olympics Spain.
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How a Nine-Year-Old Athlete Had His Life Changed
Liui’a Nikosiaki had his left leg amputated after a car hit him. He was given crutches, but he outgrew them. Then Fit Feet came along.
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Leading the Way in Ireland: Philomena O’Hare
Learn how she went from the playing field to membership on the international Special Olympics Sports Rules Advisory Committee.
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Special Olympics Cyprus Athletes Join Unified Football Project
Young athletes from Special Olympics Cyprus, together with MetLife volunteers, participated in Special Olympics European Football week.
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Special Olympics Helped Samantha Conquer a Fear
With the help of Special Olympics, she has come to love the water. Find out why that might have been unlikely several years ago.
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How David Egan Found His Voice Through Sports
David Egan has always dreamed big. Learn how he is changing attitudes toward people with intellectual disabilities.
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Ashley: Setting Goals—Then Exceeding Them
At more than 300 pounds, Ashley was motivated to make changes in both her fitness and nutrition regimens. Learn what inspired her.
What's Up With Down Syndrome? Meet David Egan
David served as a Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation Public Policy Fellow, working with the powerful House Ways and Committee.
Israeli Swimmers Stood Out at 2017 Open Water Event
Eight swimmers from Special Olympics Israel took part in an Open Water event in Achziv at the northern part of the country on May 6.
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Special Olympics Bahamas, Engaging The Youth
On April 11, Special Olympics Bahamas held its annual local season ending soccer tournament, bu there was one important difference.
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Sureka Gammeddage Is No Stranger to Obstacles
From training without shoes to using broomsticks in floorball practice, she knows what it means to persevere.
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Behind the Scenes at 2017 World Winter Games
Ever wonder what it's like for athletes at Special Olympics World Games? See the 2017 World Games in Austria from their eyes.