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Special Olympics Iowa announces dates for 2024 Summer Games celebration | Schedule of events

This week, nearly 2,500 Special Olympics Iowa athletes will head to Iowa State University for this years Summer Olympic Games from May 16-18.

GRIMES, Iowa — The Special Olympics Iowa Summer Games released its 2024 schedule Monday morning. The event will begin on Thursday, May 16, when nearly 2,500 Special Olympics Iowa athletes will meet at Iowa State University for the annual competition.

This event is one of Special Olympics Iowa's biggest competitions and celebrations of the year. Alongside the thousands of athletes taking part in the event, they expect there to be over 2,000 volunteers, staff and coaches at the event. The two-and-a-half-day event will have six different sports: bocce, cycling, soccer, swimming, tennis and track and field. 

A short opening ceremony will take place Thursday morning in downtown Des Moines with remarks from the Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens and Special Olympics Iowa President and CEO John Kliegl. Afterward, the Flame of Hope torch will be lit, and the law enforcement run will depart for Ames. 

After the 38 mile run to Ames, the Olympic flame will be lit, signaling the beginning of the Summer Games. 

Here is a breakdown of the weekend's schedule:

Thursday, May 16

  • Cycling 
  • Team Bocce 
  • Singles Tennis.
  • Soccer
  • Opening Ceremonies

Friday, May 17

  • Singles Bocce
  • Tennis Doubles
  • Swimming
  • Track and Field

Saturday, May 18

  • Track and Field (continued)

Click here for a complete schedule.

Also featured at the games are an Olympic Festival, Healthy Athletes screenings and the Little Feet Meet. 

The Olympic Festival is an area for athletes to relax between competitions and interact with sponsors and partners through games and activities. 

Healthy Athletes screenings will provide athletes with an opportunity to be examined by healthcare professionals for eyesight, dental, hearing, overall health and fitness and more. 

The Little Feet Meet is an inclusive opportunity for young athletes aged 2 to 7, with and without intellectual disabilities, to participate in track and field events at the Summer Games.

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