Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition
Special Olympics USA Games kicks off in Orlando
In front of a packed Exploria Stadium, a joyous sea of 5,500 athletes and coaches competing in the Special Olympics USA Games recited the oath first uttered at the inaugural 1968 Chicago tournament.
“Let me win,” the crowd pledged under a sunny Orlando sky during the Sunday opening ceremony. “But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
The Special Olympics kicked off its weeklong games with a colorful parade of athletes from around the nation and the Caribbean, including 607 representatives alone from Florida. The procession was followed by a celebration hosted by Good Morning America’s T.J. Holmes and Amy Robach featuring celebrity ambassadors, live performances and the igniting of a giant torch with the Flame of Hope.
Chris Nikic, a Maitland resident who became the first person with Down syndrome to complete an Ironman triathlon, carried the flame in the final leg of the journey to the torch.
“When you refuse to give up, you send a message to every village, every city, every nation — a message of hope, a message of victory,” Special Olympian Abigail Adams told her fellow athletes. “Never give up. “
The 2022 games, taking place through next Sunday, feature 19 sports, including swimming, gymnastics and powerlifting. The events will be spread throughout Central Florida, though most will be happening at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World.
Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, said the theme park was proud to be the host partner of the Special Olympics.
“Walt Disney Company was founded by one of the ultimate dreamers — a man who believed in the fun of doing the impossible,” he said during the opening ceremony. “And today, in so many ways, this is a dream come true for all of these inspiring athletes who’ve worked so hard to get here and are showing us what’s possible.”
Jersey Mike’s Subs CEO Peter Cancro, whose company raised $20 million for
the 2022 games, thanked Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver — who first recited the athlete’s oath 54 years ago.
“She was a pioneer in the worldwide struggle for rights and acceptance for people with intellectual disabilities,” he said. “Amazing what one person can do when she stands up for others . ... To our Special Olympians and their families: It is your day today and let no one stop you today and every day of your lives.”
Timothy Shriver, Special Olympics chairman, told attendees they represent a movement of 5 million athletes and allies who are fighting to make the world more inclusive.
“You represent the best of the USA,” Shriver said. “... On this playing field, there’s no contempt — there’s dignity for everyone. On this playing field, we celebrate every gift in the nation. And on this playing field, we [are] determined to build America, the possible; America, the inclusive.”
The audience cheered at the rendition of the national anthem by Broadway star Michael James Scott, which featured a flyover from the Florida Army National Guard. The show also featured a choreographed routine by Mickey and Minnie Mouse, as well as other Disney characters and color guard performers, to “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes.”
The ceremony ended with rousing performances by Grammy Award-winning artist Sara Bareilles, who sang “When You Wish Upon a Star” and her 2013 hit “Brave” on piano.
“I am so proud to be a part of this day with all of you,” Bareilles told the athletes. “You are so brave!”