Athletes can be as young as five and there is no upper age limit. " Special Olympics is a year round program for young people and adults with an intellectual disability. Special Olympics is a registered Charitable Trust established in 1983. Individuals who compete in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness, motor skills and greater self confidence.They exhibit courage and enthusiasm and
build lasting friendships. These life skills enhance their ability to live normal productive lives. More than ever, Special Olympics athlete's hold jobs, own homes, go to school and successfully confront life challenges on a daily basis. The Special Olympics movement can ultimately transform communities by inspiring people to open their minds, accept and include people with intellectual disabilities
Special Olympics Waikato has a committee of 14 volunteers who meet monthly, 150 registered athletes who train and compete on a regular basis and 24 volunteers. We are currently fund-raising to send a team of three athletes to the world games that are taking place in 2015. They will be representing New Zealand at an international level.
