Yao Ming to Kick Off Opening Ceremonies

For Immediate Release: January 24, 2006

HOUSTON – The 2006 Special Olympics Texas Winter Games, presented by CVS Pharmacy and Southern Union Company, will get off to an exciting start as international icon and basketball star Yao Ming of the Houston Rockets helps Special Olympics athletes kick off the games.  Yao will join more than 2,100 athletes, coaches and volunteers on Thursday, February 2 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cypress-Fairbanks I.S.D. Ken Pridgeon Stadium.

Yao will walk into the stadium with the athlete delegations and then address the crowd with a welcome.  Yao and an athlete will also get the honor of lighting the Winter Games cauldron with the torch.   

In 2004, Yao became a Global Ambassador for Special Olympics.  He works directly with Special Olympics athletes throughout the world, holding clinics and meetings, and spreading the vision of Special Olympics.

The 2006 Winter Games will take place in various locations in northwest Houston from February 2 – 5, 2006.  More than 2,500 athletes of all ages and skill levels will compete in bowling, figure skating, volleyball, powerlifting and table tennis.  Athletes will also participate in other fun activities, including Victory Dance and Athlete Village, a place where athletes and their families have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of exhibits, games and entertainment when not competing.  This is the third year the games have been held in Houston.

Winter Games is one of three yearly statewide events hosted by Special Olympics Texas.  Athletes from all over Texas will have the opportunity to compete.  All competitions and events are FREE to the public.

Special Olympics Texas is a privately funded non-profit organization, providing year-round sports training and athletic competition to over 23,885 children and adults with intellectual disabilities [mental retardation] in the Lone Star State.  Be a part of the movement that is CHANGING LIVES in your community.

Presenting Sponsor: CVS Pharmacy, Southern Union Company

Co-Sponsors: Coca-Cola, H-E-B, GMAC Financial Services, Interlex

Area Partner: ConocoPhillips

Gold Sponsor: Target

Silver Sponsors: Apache Corporation, Amerada Hess Corporation, Spark Energy, Wells Fargo