Special Olympic Athletes go for gold at the State competition

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Over 250 athletes competed for an opportunity to receive a gold medal at the 2024 Summer Special Olympics Kansas State Swim competition Saturday, August 11.

Athletes competed in regional competitions over the past month all around Kansas to be in Attendance for the state meet at Hummer Sports Park Natatorium.

Special Olympics Kansas does 20 events year-round and the C.O.O of Special Olympics Kansas tells 27 News why it is so important to host these events for the athletes.

"The core of Special Olympics is sports. And our athletes gains skills through that, confidence, and we showcase their abilities," Chris Burt said. "And we are able to showcase their through the general population abilities and create a more inclusion world." 

One of the athletes spoke on what he enjoys about competing.

"Just being out here with everybody, having a good time," Conner Jackson said.

Special Olympics is a non-profit organization that provides health and wellness, training and sports to people with intellectual disabilities all across Kansas and the United States.

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