Athletes Compete in Track and Field, Tennis and other Olympic Sports

Special Olympics Arizona athletes from across the state competed in the 2014 Summer Olympic Games held May 1-3 at Grand Canyon University. The Summer Games are the largest Special Olympics Arizona event held each year with 1,300 athletes competing. The games kicked off with hundreds of fans cheering on the athletes at the Americana-themed Opening Ceremonies, and the fun continued for the following two days with competitions covering track and field, tennis, powerlifting, volleyball and kayaking.

“This is by far one of the most highly anticipated events of the year,” said Tom Altieri, Big Chief for The Thunderbirds. “The enthusiasm and appreciation these kids have for the games really lights up the event and makes it all worthwhile.”

The Thunderbirds — a premiere sponsor for Special Olympics for over 30 years — spearheaded the awards ceremony, ensuring each athlete was duly honored for their achievements. This renowned charitable organization has raised more than $3 million for Special Olympics Arizona to date, contributing to Summer Games as well as the Special Olympics Young Athletes Program.

For more information on the 2014 Summer Games, please visit www.specialolympicsarizona.org.