Special Olympics Illinois

06/17/2026

What an incredible Summer Games! ☀️🏅 From the debut of Unified Co****le to celebrating Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics' 40th anniversary, and an inspiring Opening Ceremony with State Representative Sharon Chung and Representative Matt Hanson, this year was unforgettable. The Victory Dance, the smiles, and the spirit said it all.

Congratulations to all, and thank you to our incredible supporters and sponsors who made it possible! ❤️

☑️ View results: soill.org/summer-games
📸 View photos as they become available: bit.ly/4grRibF

06/17/2026

Strength like this doesn’t happen overnight. 🏋️‍♀️💪🏋

Every rep, every lift, and every hour of preparation that Powerlifting spent during the Special Olympics USA Games Training Camp has paved the way for victory.

Minnesota is getting closer, and this team is ready to show what months of hard work can do. 👊

06/16/2026

A voice from inside the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) tent shouted, “Whose birthday is it?”

A few feet away, a Kane County police officer in the LETR’s dunk tank replied, “It’s our birthday!” 🎉

A Special Olympics Illinois athlete hit the bullseye, sending the officer into the water. She was still fully drenched after emerging from the tank, but that did not deter an athlete from wrapping his arms around her in a hearty embrace.

Read more about the history and impact of Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics on its 40th anniversary in the recap article by Randy Kindred:

By Randy Kindred A voice from inside the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) tent shouted, “Whose birthday is it?” A few feet away, a Kane County police officer in the LETR’s dunk tank replied, “It’s our birthday!” A Special Olympics Illinois athlete hit the bullseye, sending the officer in...

06/16/2026

Thousands of ducks + the Chicago River = one duck-tastic time! 🐥🎉🏁

The Chicago Ducky Derby is back on August 6 and ready to make a splash for Special Olympics Illinois athletes. Adopt a duck, show up on race day, and be part of one of the most fun traditions in the city!

🎉 Derby Festival starts at 10:00 AM at Pioneer Court
🐥 Splashdown at 1:00 PM at the Columbus Drive Bridge

Don’t wait—adopt your duck now at https://bit.ly/4tibBv2!

The is presented by Jewel-Osco.

06/15/2026

One more shoutout to the generous sponsors of the 2026 Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games ☀️ …Your generosity is making a lasting difference in the lives of athletes across Illinois!

06/14/2026

Thank you Uptown Normal for hosting an incredible Victory Dance 🕺 again this year for ! ☀️

06/13/2026

Update: Weather has passed through the area. Please check in at your venues to resume competition.

We are actively monitoring the weather as inclement conditions pass through the area. Events will be paused during this time, with a return to normal competition flow if possible as soon as the weather clears. Horton Fieldhouse is available for shelter at any time.

If any schedule adjustments become necessary, updates will be shared through our website, social channels, and text alerts. Please stay tuned and stay safe!

06/13/2026

Highlights from day one of ☀️

A full day of competition and activities ended with an inspirational Final Leg and Opening Ceremony 🔥 We can’t wait to see what the rest of the weekend has in store!

View the full schedule of events at SOILL.org/summer-games.

06/13/2026

Let the begin! 🔥🏅👏