The Special Olympics is a sporting competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. One hundred and seventy countries and almost 4.5 million athletes compete every year in local, state and national competitions with a world competition held every two years. This is different from the Paralympics because most athletes at the Paralympics have physical disabilities, only 120 athletes at the London Paralympics had intellectual disabilities.

But here's what makes the Special Olympics so Special…

1. Creates an environment where children and adults with intellectual disabilities can be accepted confident, empowered and happy.

2. The energy and charisma of the athletes is contagious.

Their excitement and passion they show for the Special Olympics really is contagious and really makes you feel engaged with them even if it only for one day.

3. Their smiles speak for themselves

When the athletes smile you can’t help but smile. Their joy in those moments is awe-inspiring you can’t help but smile back.

4. Nothing can take away from their achievements

Not you, not me, not anyone, but especially not their disabilities can take way from their achievements at the Special Olympics. It is a result of their hard work, passion and character.

5. The pride and enthusiasm shown by parents and coaches unsurpassed.

It is such an uplifting experience to see the reaction of a parent or coach when an athlete crosses the finish line or has their chance to compete. Their joy, pride and sometimes elation are almost more beautiful than the smiles on the athlete’s faces.

6. The athletes are the real MVP's!!

It is an event like the Special Olympics that allows all athletes to compete no matter what obstacles may be standing in their way. It is an event where time or distance isn’t the defining factor, just crossing the finish line or throwing a shot put and just having go counts more than anything else. Proving to not just the athletes but those around as well that anything is possible if you put your mind to it and winning isn’t everything.