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.
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
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
2 Min Read