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!
Asmaa Naser Eddin Wins Medal for Syria Despite Odds
She fled the bomb zone, and she arrived in a country where dreams come true. Learn what she endured just to train.
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Floorball Athletes Prove Power of Perseverance
Indonesian floorball athletes had challenges due to lack of equipment and a proper venue. Learn what they did to stay sharp.
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Special Olympics Unified Sports Training Pays Off for Ice Dancers
The audience were treated to a beautiful display when Denis Bragin and Yekaterina Kirdyayeva took to the ice. Read about their journey.
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The Special Bond Behind Erika Kalin's Incredible Performance
Erika Kalin listens for one voice when she competes—her training guide Reinhart Shultz. Read about their incredible connection.
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We Are the Peacemakers
Our 5 million Special Olympics athletes are leading the way to a world where everyone is included—see how.
Learning Perseverance in the Mountains of Pakistan
Special Olympics athlete Parvez works as a laborer in a wheat field. That may have shaped him into the athlete he is today.
1 Min Read
Korean Athlete Finds and Shares Success Through Sports
As a child, Wonsang had problems associated with intellectual disability. Eventually, his family found sports helped him find focus.
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To Play Is To Learn: WASH Instruction in Kenya
“I have learned that dirty hands will make me sick.” This is what athlete Habiba Noor learned from participating in sports. Learn how.
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Leadership Shines in Kenya’s Microsoft Mission 3000 Athlete
Find out how John Makau has overcome an intellectual disability to lead his family, and many others too.
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Athlete Input Council Members Discuss Leadership
See what they have to say about what athlete leadership means to them, howe they became leaders and more.
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