The Special Olympics New York Summer Games are here! This weekend, over 1,500 athletes and coaches will come to the Capital Region to participate in the 2018 Games. Read on to see the full schedule of events, including a VIP Reception, Opening Ceremonies, and all of the exciting competitions to come!
The Schedule
This year, the Special Olympics New York Summer Games will take place from Friday, June 15 to Saturday, June 16 at various Capital Region venues. All events will be free and open to the public.
VIP Reception
The Games will begin with a VIP Reception on Friday, thanking the Honorary Co-Chairs, Siena College President, and Albany County Executive, as well as the organizing committee and major sponsors. Along with Special Olympics New York athletes, other attendees at this year’s Games include Stacey Hensterman—the incoming President and CEO of Special Olympics New York, Siena Men’s Basketball Coach Jamion Christian, New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, and other government officials.
- When: Friday, June 15, 6 PM to 7:30 PM
- Where: Siena College, Sarazen Student Union (Maloney Great Room)
Opening Ceremonies
The Opening Ceremonies of this year’s Games will feature the parade of athletes, speeches, and a flyover by New York State Police. Members of the law enforcement community will then carry the Flame of Hope, lighting the official cauldron and declaring the Games open. The Ceremonies will be emceed by Marisa Jacques, Sports Director at Spectrum News Albany.
- When: Friday, June 15, 8 PM
- Where: Siena College Athletic Field
Athletic Competitions
Every year, athletes train for at least eight weeks in their hometowns, competing locally and regionally to qualify for state competitions like the Summer Games. Here is the official schedule for this summer’s sporting events, held all day throughout the Capital Region on June 16 from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Athletics
- When: 8 AM to 4:30 PM
- Where: Hudson Valley Community College
Tennis
- When: 10 AM to 4:30 PM
- Where: Hudson Valley Community College
Powerlifting
- When: 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- Where: Siena College, Marcelle Athletic Complex
Basketball
- When: 11 AM to 4 PM
- Where: Siena College, Marcelle Athletic Complex
Aquatics
- When: 9:15 AM to 5:30 PM
- Where: Shaker High School
Gymnastics
- When: 1 PM to 4:30 PM
- Where: World Class Gymnastics Center
Volleyball
- When: 9:30 AM to 4 PM
- Where: Schenectady High School
Bowling
- When: 10 AM to 3 PM
- Where: Boulevard Bowl
Healthy Athletes
- When: 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM
- Where: Lot W, Siena College
Closing Ceremonies and Victory Dance
- When: Saturday, June 16, 8 PM
- Where: Siena College, Callanan Field House
About Special Olympics New York
Providing sports training and competition to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics New York is a year-round program, free to athletes and their caregivers. Would you like to volunteer for the 2018 Summer Games? Find out more at specialolympics-ny.org!
