Athletes

“Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
– Special Olympics Athlete Oath

Special Olympics GB offers a multitude of training and competition opportunities in summer and winter sports. Anyone between the ages of 6 and 80 with an IQ of below 75 is eligible to participate in the Special Olympics programme. We also have a Young Athletes Programme™ for children aged 2-7 years.

Children and adults with intellectual (learning) disabilities who participate in the Special Olympics sports programme develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image. They grow mentally, socially and spiritually and ultimately discover not only new friends, abilities and talents, but their “voices” as well.

If you have an intellectual (learning) disability and would like to play sports, at your own pace or level, you should join Special Olympics! You’ll have fun, get some exercise and make new friends!

Join Now!

If you are interested in becoming a Special Olympics GB athlete, or know someone who is, please contact your nearest club, complete our online Athlete Interest Form or call us on 020 7247 8891.

How I can get involved if I am not eligible to become an athlete?

You are not eligible to take part in the Special Olympics programme if you have a learning difficulty such as ADHD, Aspergers or dyslexia however, we encourage you to participate in our Unified Sports programme as a Unified Partner or you can also become a volunteer.