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Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the sister of John F. Kennedy and the mother of Maria Shriver, is the heart and creator behind the Special Olympics. Inspired by her sister Rosemary who had an intellectual disability, Shriver saw sports as a common ground that can unite people from all different walks. She had a vision to create a space where people with intellectual disabilities could play and compete – giving them the opportunity to highlight their talents.
The first international Special Olympics was held in July 1968 with 1,000 athletes competing in track and field and swimming. Forty-seven years later the Special Olympics has morphed into a movement that empowers and transforms lives. Learn more about this impressive nonprofit with these 10 eye-opening facts about the Special Olympics.
1. SPECIAL OLYMPICS AND THE OLYMPICS
The Special Olympics is the only organization authorized by the International Olympic Committee to use the word “Olympics” worldwide.
2. THE GAMES
Athletes compete in 32 sports, including snowboarding, judo, cricket, soccer and more.
3. KEEPING ATHLETES HEALTHY
The Special Olympics program Healthy Athletes offers 1.4 million free health examinations in more than 120 countries to athletes at Special Olympics competitions. Health professionals perform a full exam in the categories of podiatry, physical therapy, audiology, vision, dentistry, physical therapy and more.
4. THE GLOBAL REACH
More than 3.1 million athletes from over 175 countries take part in the Special Olympics.
5. INSTILLING TEAM SPIRIT
Playing team sports has been shown to build camaraderie and Special Olympics Unified Sports® combines those with intellectual disabilities and those without to play together on a team. Over half a million people worldwide participate.
6. CELEBRITY SUPPORTERS
World renowned swimmer Michael Phelps, actress Brooklyn Decker, basketball player Damian Lillard and other noteworthy celebs are Special Olympics Global Ambassadors, representing and spreading the message of the organization.
7. ATHLETIC PROWESS
Special Olympics athletes are divided to compete in categories based on gender, age, and ability.
8. WORDS TO LIVE BY
The Special Olympics athlete oath is "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
9. COMPETITION TIME
Special Olympics World Games are held every two years, alternating with Summer and Winter Games.
10. GET INVOLVED
More than 750,000 people volunteer with the Special Olympics - get in touch with a regional office close to you to see if you’re interested in getting involved.
