More than 3,000 Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) athletes from across the state will take over Arlington for the 2012 Summer Games, May 24-27.  The Summer Games will be held at The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) and at surrounding community venues. 

Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) officers from across the state will officially kick off the Games by completing the Final Leg of the Torch Run on Friday, May 25.  More than 350 law enforcement officials will deliver the Flame of Hope into Maverick Stadium at 10:00 a.m. and to the Summer Games Press Conference scheduled for 10:15 a.m. in the northwest field at the Stadium.

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 family members will be there to watch the athletes compete.  All events are free and open to the public.  

In addition to competitions, Summer Games includes several special events and activities.  Opening Ceremonies is scheduled for Friday, May 25 at 7:00 p.m. at Maverick Stadium.  This event includes the Parade of Athletes, the reciting of the Athlete Oath and the lighting of the cauldron.  Athletes will also participate in Athlete Village, where they can relax, play games and meet other athletes when they are not competing on Friday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  From 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. both days, athletes will also have access to free health

screenings and services through a series of clinics at Healthy Athletes.  Opening Eyes provides a FREE vision screening, FREE vision exam and FREE prescription glasses if needed; Healthy Hearing provides a FREE hearing screening.  Fit Feet provides a FREE foot screening and Special Smiles provides a FREE dental exam for athletes.

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED!  We invite individuals, groups and companies to get into the Games.  Volunteer opportunities, a description of the roles and online volunteer registration are available online at www.specialolympicstexas.org.  Those interested may also show up and go to the Volunteer Tent at Maverick Stadium for a volunteer assignment. 

About Special Olympics Texas
Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) is a privately funded non-profit organization that changes lives through the power of sport by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities, promoting acceptance for all, and fostering communities of understanding and respect.  SOTX provides continuing opportunities for more than 44,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout the Lone Star State to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship.  To learn more, visit www.specialolympicstexas.org or call 800.876.5646.  Engage with us on: Twitter @SOTexas; fb.com/SpecialOlympicsTX; youtube.com/specialolympicstexas.

 Presenting Sponsors:
TD AMERITRADE and Walmart

Co-Sponsors:
Coca-Cola Refreshments, Food Town, H-E-B Tournament of Champions
Charitable Trust and Law Enforcement Torch Run

Circle of Champion Sponsor:
Star-Telegram

Torchbearer Sponsors:
Atmos Energy, Bell Helicopter Textron, Essilor of America, Mattel, Inc., Pillar Hotels, Prime Controls,
Regional Acceptance Corporation, Southwest Dairy Farmers
and The University of Texas at Arlington