Seattle Olympics

From Disability Scoop:

"Seattle To Host 2018 Special Olympics"

Seattle will host the next Special Olympics USA Games in July 2018. Washington Gov. Jay Inslee and others presented the news late last week to a crowded room of Special Olympics fans and athletes, saying planning is already underway for the roughly one-week competition that will attract thousands of visitors from across the country. “We’re thrilled that our region has been selected to host the games,” King County Executive Dow Constantine said to the crowd. Added Seattle Deputy Mayor Kate Joncas: “Seattle is no stranger to big events, and this, I think, is going to be the biggest … sports event to be here since the Goodwill Games” in 1990. The Special Olympics USA Games are held every four years; the most recent were in New Jersey in 2014. Since 1968, when Chicago hosted the first International Special Olympics, the competitions have become widely celebrated as part of the largest global movement for empowering people with intellectual disabilities. The 2018 event will mark the games’ 50th year. About 3,500 athletes from all 50 states will compete in 16 individual and team sports, such as powerlifting and gymnastics, at facilities throughout the Seattle area July 1-6. The majority of events will be at the University of Washington. Transit officials will be working with games officials to mitigate traffic impacts. “We expect mass-transit connections — buses connecting with light rail — will play a key role as visitors attend events and explore the region,” said Metro Transit spokesman Jeff Switzer. The games are estimated to generate $50 million in tourism revenue, require the help of 10,000 local volunteers and attract 50,000 spectators, officials said. The competitions will be free to the public.

^ The Special Olympics are an important opportunity for people with different disabilities to come together and compete. It's also a great way for the non-disabled to mix and learn with those with disabilities. It's a win-win for everyone and, I have heard, a lot of fun.  ^

https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2016/05/17/seattle-host-special-olympics/22315/