Stories
These global stories are about the power of Special Olympics to inspire hope, confidence and courage. Special Olympics changes the lives of our athletes with intellectual disabilities but also our coaches, families, volunteers and others who have the opportunity to take part.
Khadija Zen Al Abdeen Breaks Barriers for Women at World Games
Khadija isn’t just competing at Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019, she is breaking barriers.
1 Min Read
Khadija's Favorite Race? The 200m!
Khadija Sy wrapped up her 2019 World Games competitions this week with a 100m run and the 4x100 relay.
1 Min Read
On World DS Day: Celebrating Athletes with Down Syndrome—Who Prove Their Power, Ability Through Sports
People with intellectual disabilities (ID) are accomplishing more than anyone ever thought possible, as Special Olympics athletes prove every day around the world.
3 Min Read
An Athlete's Perspective on World Down Syndrome Day
By Special Olympic athlete, Chaica Al Qassimi, a Technical Officer, Judo, Special Olympics UAE team.
3 Min Read
USA Powerlifter Angel Athenas Perseveres and Wins Gold at World Games
Angel walked up to the barbell at the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 and rose above the years of struggle that are now behind her.
1 Min Read
How a Love Story Between a 10-Year-Old Girl and Horses is Making History at the World Games
Sara Mashabek’s love of horses could be described as love at first sight.
1 Min Read
USA Equestrian Spencer Roberson Sweeps Gold at his First World Games
Spencer Roberson is an accomplished athlete and volunteer who made his international debut at the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019.
1 Min Read
Despite Injury, Abhishek Stays on Course—and Wins Silver in the 10K!
Abhishek Gogoi said he would do his best at World Games—and he did.
1 Min Read
USA's Brittany Wins vs. Belgium's Lies Gielis
Brittany Tagliareni has won her first game of the 2019 World Games in a hard-fought match against Belgium's Lies Gielis, daughter of late European football legend Marc Gielis.
1 Min Read
‘I’m Going for the Gold, Mom’: A Jamaican Bocce Player’s Vow
Delroy Sullivan has something in common with his role-model Usain Bolt.
2 Min Read
Eyes on the Prize at World Games: Lions Clubs International Foundation Opening Eyes Program
If you’ve never seen the world clearly, how would you know you are missing something?
3 Min Read
29-Year-Old Palestinian Powerlifter Hear Fans Cheering for the First Time
For the first time in his life, he could hear the aura of a crowd. Fans from all over the world cheering him on.
1 Min Read