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.
Motor Activity Training Program Proves Sports are for Everyone
At the 2019 World Games, 37 Motor Activity Training Program athletes showed the world that people of all levels of ability can participate and benefit from athletic programs.
1 Min Read
Track Star Allyson Felix and Special Olympics Athletes Go Through the Paces
A group of Special Olympic athletes had a day to remember as they trained alongside multiple Olympic gold medalist Allyson Felix in a Unified Sprint Clinic at Dubai Police Academy Stadium on 17 March.
1 Min Read
Venezuela Swimmer Aquiles Heredia Wins Silver
After a technical disqualification over the weekend, Aquiles Heredia rallied with a stellar effort in the breaststroke today—earning his first big win of the games, a silver medal!
1 Min Read
‘Compassion Creates Compassion’: The Special Olympics World Games Open in Spectacular Fashion in Abu Dhabi
Over 40,000 people from all around the world are cheering and making waves during a sold-out sports event.
3 Min Read
Hometown Hero Saleh Al Marri Aims High, Wins Gold
Saleh Al Marri set a high goal for himself—and reached it.
1 Min Read
Special Olympic World Games 2019: The Meaning behind the Flame of Hope
Since the first Torch Run at the Olympic Games in 1936, the Torch Run is one of the most important parts of the Opening Ceremony.
2 Min Read
Senegal Athlete Hears Unified Partner Speak His Name for First Time in Abu Dhabi
Football Player Fitted for Hearing Aids at Special Olympics World Games
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Global Health Leaders Pledge to End Healthcare Disparities for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Individuals with intellectual disabilities from 20 developing countries can now hope to receive a better quality healthcare services in the next three to five years.
2 Min Read
Meaningful Conversations: Tim & Maria Shriver
Special Olympics Chairman, Tim Shriver joins his sister, Maria Shriver, as a special guest on her podcast “Meaningful Conversations.”
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India's Abhishek Gogoi keeps going, despite setbacks
It was a weekend of adjustment for cyclists from Bharat, as they got accustomed to the uphill/downhill raceway of the Yas Marina track in Abu Dhabi.
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Jimmy Masina, Football Official for the Abu Dhabi 2019 World Games
Jimmy Masina is an athlete leader from South Africa and works as an Office Assistant for Special Olympics Africa.
3 Min Read
Khadija of Senegal just getting started...with a silver medal in the 200m!
Khadija Sy has made a fast start in her first race of the 2019 World Games.
1 Min Read