Summer Games Is On!

Athletes Gear Up for Three Day Competition

For Immediate Release: April 9, 2009

More than 2,800 Special Olympics Texas athletes from across the state will take over Arlington next month for the 2009 Summer Games.  This year is the fourth for Arlington to host the Summer Games.  The Games will be held at the University of Texas at Arlington and at venues in the Arlington area, May 21-24.

Volunteers are needed!  We invite individuals, groups, families and companies to volunteer to assist with competitions and special events throughout the weekend.  Register to volunteer online NOW by clicking here.  For more information, call 1.800.876.JOIN.

Special Olympics Texas athletes will show off their skills as they compete in athletics (track and field), basketball, cycling, gymnastics, soccer and tennis.  In addition to the athletes, thousands of volunteers will assist with the competitions and hundreds of family members will be there to watch the athletes compete.

Competition begins on Friday, May 22 at 8:00 a.m.  At 10:00 a.m., hundreds of law enforcement officers will run into Maverick Stadium and the 2009 Summer Games press conference will begin.  During the press conference, the officers will deliver the Flame of Hope and present a check for funds raised during the year.  The Games officially kick off with Opening Ceremonies that evening at 7:00 p.m. at Maverick Stadium.  This fun-filled event includes the Parade of Athletes, the reciting of the Athlete Oath and the Torch lighting ceremony.  Competition will continue through Sunday afternoon.

The Summer Games Equestrian Competition will be held May 29-31 at the Brazos County Expo Center in Bryan.  Volunteers are needed to help with this competition on May 30-31.  Click here to register to volunteer at the Equestrian Competition.

Special Olympics Texas is a privately funded non-profit organization, providing year-round sports training and athletic competition for 32,240 children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the Lone Star State.  Be a part of the movement that is CHANGING LIVES in your community.  Visit www.specialolympicstexas.org.    

Presenting Sponsor:
Wal-Mart

Co-Sponsors:
Coca-Cola Bottling Companies of Texas, ConocoPhillips, Food Town and
H-E-B Tournament of Champions Charitable Trust

Andi Baca Kelly
Public Relations Coordinator
Special Olympics Texas
akelly@sotx.org