Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction will be the site for next summer’s statewide Special Olympics, the first time the Western Slope has hosted the event, Special Olympics Colorado announced Tuesday.
“Colorado Mesa University has some of the best athletic facilities in the western United States,” Mindy Watrous, Special Olympics Colorado’s president and CEO, said in a statement.
“I’m thrilled for our athletes and coaches to have an opportunity to compete in state-of-the-art facilities like the El Pomar Natatorium. President (Tim) Foster and his team have been welcoming from the first conversation, and I’m thrilled that our board of directors endorsed the move to the Western Slope.”
The 2012 games were held at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. Special Olympics Colorado has been putting on competitions since 1969.
The event in Grand Junction is expected to draw more than 1,100 athletes competing in track and field, soccer, swimming, gymnastics and powerlifting events. The competition also will bring athletes’ families, more than 400 volunteers, sponsors and supports.
The opening ceremonies will be June 1 at 10 a.m. A “victory celebration” will be held Saturday night with a dance and fireworks.
All competitions and events are free.
Special Olympics Colorado provides more than 100 events, as well as year-round training, for more than 12,000 athletes in 22 sports with the help of 6,600 volunteers and donations from individuals, businesses and corporations.
Joey Bunch: 303-954-1174, jbunch@denverpost.com or
