Special Olympics

Elisa Mendoza, Contributor
April 2, 2018

What are the Special Olympics?

An international competition, modeled on the Olympic Games, in which mentally and physically handicapped athletes compete.

What is the meaning of the Special Olympics logo?
The straight arms mean “equal”, showing that our athletes are just like everyone else. The raised arms represent “joy”, and realizing ultimate goals. The five people represent the five continents involved in Special Olympics at the time the logo was created.
How was the Special Olympics started?
The genesis of Special Olympics was a summer day camp that Sargent and Eunice Shriver started in the backyard of their Maryland home. In July 1968, the world witnessed the first International Special Olympics Games at Soldier Field in Chicago.
Is there an age limit for Special Olympics? 
Every person with an intellectual disability who is at least eight years of age is eligible to participate in Special Olympics. There is no maximum age limitation for participation in Special Olympics. The minimum age requirement for participation in Special Olympics competition is eight years of age.
What is the Special Olympics oath?
 The Special Olympics athlete’s oath, which was first introduced by Eunice Kennedy Shriver at the inaugural Special Olympics international games in Chicago in 1968, is “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
Is the Olympics every year?
The Olympic Games are held every four years, with the Summer and Winter Games alternating by occurring every four years but two years apart. Their creation was inspired by the ancient Olympic Games, which were held in Olympia, Greece, from the 8th century BC to the 4th century AD.