Twin Cities welcome Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games

Posted on June 14, 2018

By Crystal Donaldson

NORMAL – The Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games kick off this weekend with more than 4,000 athletes competing in Bloomington-Normal.

This weekend marks the 50th Special Olympics nationwide.

Director of state championships, Nate Henry, said that makes the games extra special this year.

“Because of the 50th, the opening ceremony is highlighted even more,” said Henry. “We do what is called the lighting of the torch where our great fundraiser and the police department will run the torch with our athletes and light the caldron. Then we’ll kick off the games with some fireworks at the end.”

Athletes can compete in six different sports along with 1,600 coaches and 2,000 volunteers.

With so many helping hands, Henry said it’s great to see the games on display.

“Obviously the best part for me every year is just watching the athletes compete,” Henry continued. “Just seeing it all come together. A lot of blood sweat and tears go into putting on the event, but once the event starts it’s just great to watch them compete.”

The opening ceremony starts Friday at 8 p.m. at Hancock Stadium.

Crystal Donaldson can be reached at [email protected].

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