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Special Olympics World Games

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description Special Olympics World Games Overview

The Special Olympics World Games is an international multi-sport competition for athletes with intellectual disabilities, organized under the Special Olympics movement founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver. The inaugural games were held in 1968 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois, with approximately 1,000 participants. The event has since grown into a global occasion with both summer and winter editions, drawing athletes from over 170 countries. Competitions are organized using a divisioning system that groups athletes by ability level to ensure equitable competition across a range of sports.

help Special Olympics World Games FAQ

Who founded the Special Olympics?

The Special Olympics movement was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, sister of President John F. Kennedy. She began hosting a summer day camp for people with intellectual disabilities at her home in Maryland in the early 1960s, which grew into the global Special Olympics organization.

When and where were the first Special Olympics World Games held?

The inaugural Special Olympics games were held in 1968 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. Approximately 1,000 athletes from the United States and Canada participated in events including track and field and swimming.

How often are the Special Olympics World Games held?

The Special Olympics World Games are typically held every two years, alternating between Summer and Winter Games. The events bring together thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities from over 150 countries competing across dozens of sports.

What is the difference between the Special Olympics and the Paralympics?

The Special Olympics is specifically for athletes with intellectual disabilities, while the Paralympic Games serve athletes with physical disabilities, visual impairments, and certain other disabilities. The two are completely separate organizations, with the Special Olympics operating independently from the International Paralympic Committee.