Gov. Pritzker and First Lady MK Pritzker Join Special Olympics Illinois for Rally at the Governor’s Mansion
Upcoming summer games will be held in Bloomington-Normal
May 31, 2024
SPRINGFIELD- Today, Governor JB Pritzker and First Lady MK Pritzker joined Special Olympics Illinois participants for a pep rally at the Governor’s Mansion. The event consisted of lawn games, a dunk tank, and family fun activities. The rally was in preparation for the 2024 Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games, which will be held in Bloomington-Normal next weekend.
“For 50 years, the Special Olympics has given us countless opportunities to rejoice and build community around all that makes us unique,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I want to express my sincere gratitude to each and every one of you – the athletes, coaches, volunteers – who make the work of the Illinois Special Olympics possible. You all have helped so many to form lifelong friendships and memories, all while making our state a kinder place. On behalf of all of Illinois, thank you for all that you do.”
“Special Olympics Illinois has had a phenomenal impact on individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families for decades,” said First Lady MK Pritzker. “It’s a privilege to host today’s rally, and we can’t wait to see the success of this year’s 2024 Summer Games.”
Special Olympics Illinois began offering programming in 1968, and hosts the Summer Games each year, bringing together thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers, community organizations, and fans. This year’s three-day event involves the championship competition for sports like bocce, powerlifting, soccer, swimming, and gymnastics. This year, 3,453 athletes and 51 Unified partners have earned gold medals in their divisions, with more than 380 agencies competing.
Special Olympics Illinois CEO Pete Beale-Delevecchio also gave remarks, as well as Special Olympics Illinois athlete Mollie Yates and Representative Nikki Budzinski. At the event, the Governor and First Lady also announced the proclamation of May 31, 2024 as Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games Pep Rally Day.
“We are thrilled to have the Governor and First Lady kick off the festivities for our 2024 Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games,” said Special Olympics Illinois CEO Pete Beale-Delevecchio. “We appreciate their unwavering commitment to the Special Olympics community and the tens of thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers and supporters across the state.”
About Special Olympics
Special Olympics is a global organization that has transformed the lives of countless individuals with intellectual disabilities, allowing them to realize their full potential in life and sports, as well as enhance their physical fitness, motor skills, self-confidence, and social skills.
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