By Selah Jacoway
FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) -Smiles light up the cloudy sky as cities compete in today’s Special Olympics. As the day kicks off, athletes have one goal on their minds.
Cass County Athlete Lance said, “Win that gold medal. I want to bring it home this year.”
But beyond the medals, the event was about inclusivity—a reminder that gifts and talents belong to everyone. The Special Olympics welcomes anyone with a mental disability, giving every athlete the chance to shine.
Nancy Hanson, President and CEO of Special Olympics ND, said, “So a lot of people don’t believe that our athletes could compete, and some of them are pretty darn athletic.”
Today’s competition proved just that, with athletes who have even made it to the U.S. Special Olympics.
Josh Jerome an athlete competing in this years National Special Olympics shared, “I’m excited to go to nationals, that’s what I’m excited for”
For many athletes, the event is also about friendship and connection.
“For us, we have opportunities to eat with friends, go have pizza. Athletes don’t always have those opportunities, and this is a chance to show inclusion.” Says Hanson
Cass County Special Olympics teams says, “To tell you the truth, it’s all about the friendship.” A different athlete agreed, “Yeah, I agree. Friendship and hanging out with the athletes—friendship and the best partners you can have .”
While connection and inclusivity are at the heart of the games, accessibility is just as important. Without state funding, the Special Olympics raises every dollar needed to cover all athletes’ fees.
Hanson explained, “We are one of 13 states across the nation that do not receive state funding, so any dollar we raise, we have to earn.”
As the games wrapped up, athletes left feeling uplifted and full of confidence.
“I’m feeling really good. I’m feeling confident.” Another athlete added, “I’m feeling confident.”
The Special Olympics provides athletes with a place to connect, be proud, and show the world their talents.
“I don’t know what I’d do without the Special Olympics. It’s fun!”
