HONOLULU (KHON2) — Over 350 athletes, coaches and partners gathered this morning, Aug. 16, for the opening ceremony of the Special Olympics Hawaii’s 30th annual Aukake Classic.
The two-day event will take place at Waiau District Park, featuring multi-division five-a-side soccer and Unified bocce doubles tournaments.
The Special Olympics Hawaii was founded in 1968 to give athletes with intellectual disabilities the chance to compete in year-round activities. The Aukake Classic is one of the three state competitions held throughout the year.
“Our athletes are both youth and adults competing from age 8 up to athletes competing in their 60s, even 70s. We want to make sure our athletes have the opportunity for physical fitness, develop confidence, camaraderie of being a part of a team, being accepted, and getting the same opportunities we all take for granted,” said President and CEO of the Special Olympics Hawaii, Dan Epstein.
Everyone of all ages are welcome to participate in the Special Olympic Hawaii events, never charging a fee for any athlete to participate.
“My daughter has been participating since she was 18; she’ll be turning 40 this year. So I spent many days out here at the other events as well,” said Kehau Koa, mom of a Special Olympic Hawaii athlete.
Special Olympics Hawaii hosts over 50 competitions with 10 Olympic-type sports with the help of nearly 10,000 volunteers.
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To learn more about the program and future events, check out the website.