The City of Whitewater and the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater are excited to host the 2023 Special Olympics Summer Games June 8-10, 2023. All events will take place on the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater campus. More than 1,400 athletes from across the state will compete in track & field, cornhole, powerlifting, tennis, and soccer.
Special Olympics is a global movement that unleashes the human spirit through the transformative power and joy of sports. It empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities to become accepted and valued members of their communities, leading to a more respectful and inclusive society for all. Using sports as the catalyst as well as programming around health and education, Special Olympics works to end inactivity, injustice and intolerance.
John Weidl, Whitewater city manager, shares, “The City of Whitewater couldn’t be happier to do our part supporting the 2023 Special Olympic games taking place in our community. It’s fitting that such a diverse and inclusive event be hosted in such a diverse and inclusive community. Please join us in welcoming and celebrating these athletes, their families, friends, and visitors alike.”
The 2023 Special Olympics Summer Games will include a parade of athletes and the opening ceremony, the final leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run® LETR medal moments, and more (learn more about the event). Fun for the whole family! Fans are welcome to watch the Summer Games from the stands or to get involved by volunteering.
The mission of the LETR is to raise funds and awareness for the Special Olympics Movement. LETR is ever growing and has raised over $600 million for Special Olympics programs since forming. Known as Guardians of the Flame, law enforcement members and Special Olympics athletes carry the “Flame of Hope” into the Opening Ceremonies.
Join or cheer them on as they finish strong and carry the Flame of Hope through our community. All community members are welcome to cheer on the runners or participate in the LETR (Learn more about LETR – see “final leg.”) To participate, registration is required. There are various registration options: register to participate and receive a t-shirt for $25, register to be fan and receive a t-shirt for $25, or register to participate in the event for free. LETR will take place Thursday, June 8th, 2023. Participants will gather at Cravath Lakefront Park at 5:00 p.m. The Torch Run will begin at 5:30 p.m. from Cravath Lakefront Park and end at approximately 6:00 p.m. at Perkins Stadium.
Eric Boettcher, Parks & Recreation Director, shares, “It’s an excellent opportunity for our community to host such a great event at one of our parks and along with other community partners. The partnership we have with Special Olympics is a great way to support these athletes and provide volunteer opportunities for residents to get involved.”
