Recap of the 2024 Summer Games

The 2024 Summer Games, held from June 7-9 in Bloomington-Normal, was a thrilling three-day event, showcasing the talents and determination of more than 15,000 participants. 40 athletes traveled down to Illinois State University to represent FVSRA in their sport of choice. Among them were over 3,500 athletes and Unified partners, 1,250 coaches, 1,200 volunteers, and 10,000 families and friends, all contributing to an unforgettable experience.

Aside from the main-event sporting competitions, the Summer Games weekend was packed with exciting activities and events. The festivities kicked off with the Opening Ceremony, which featured the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg. This ceremony was complete with a parade of athletes, the National Anthem, the Athlete Oath, and the lighting of the Flame of Hope.

In addition to the athletic competitions, participants enjoyed a variety of Healthy Athlete initiatives, which provided valuable health screenings and services. Families had numerous opportunities to get involved, from registration and activity opportunities to exploring Olympic Town, which offered a variety of interactive activities, souvenir sales, and the vibrant Victory Dance held in Uptown Normal.

As the championship-level competition for athletics, the Summer Games saw athletes from the Fox Valley Special Recreation Association competing in bocce, powerlifting, track and field, and swimming. These athletes earned their spots through outstanding performances in their respective sports, demonstrating their dedication and hard work.

FVSRA was proudly represented by over 40 athletes at this year’s event. Their hard work and determination paid off spectacularly, with FVSRA athletes bringing home an impressive total of 70 medals! (most of which were gold!)

• 44 Gold Medals

• 15 Silver Medals

• 11 Bronze Medals

Congratulations to all the FVSRA athletes for their incredible achievements at the 2024 Summer Games! Your dedication, hard work, and sportsmanship have made us all extremely proud. Here’s to celebrating your success and looking forward to many more triumphs in the future.

Our dedicated supporters are a constant presence, cheering from the stands, offering encouragement from the sidelines, and contributing as volunteers and coaches. Even those who wished the athletes well from afar contributed to the energy and enthusiasm felt the whole weekend. The unwavering support and enthusiasm for the athletes and Special Olympics Illinois are deeply appreciated and celebrated. Go Stars!

To learn more about this event, you can visit Special Olympics Illinois Webpage by clicking here.