Special Olympics Wisconsin was well-represented at Special Olympics World Games Berlin this June, sending a strong contingency of athletes, coaches, and support staff representing Team Special Olympics USA. Medals were won, memories were made, and an incredible experience for all capped off a two-week celebration of inclusion through sport.
Swimmer Peter Liu (Madison) earned a bronze medal in the 100-meter Individual Medley, and his 4×50 Medley Relay won silver. He also finished sixth in the 200-meter Breaststroke.
Chelsie Workman (Rice Lake) took to the Athletics arena, also earning a pair of medals. She earned silver in the Long Jump, bronze in the 400-meter Run.
Complementing the SOWI athletes were a pair of coaches–Steve Meurett (Neillsville) and Bonnie Kahn (Tomahawk). The quartet representing Special Olympics USA took part in a week of festivities leading up to the competition, including the Host Town Program, Healthy Athletes disciplines, and a grand Opening Ceremony co-hosted by Special Olympics Wisconsin’s own Daina Shilts (Neillsville).
Coach Bonnie’s connection to her German heritage was also featured by Special Olympics USA.
Joel Wener of the Pepin County Sheriff’s Office supported the World Games representing LETR for Special Olympics Wisconsin, taking part in Torch Runs across the German landscape leading up to the Opening Ceremony.
SOWI also sent a crew of support staff for the games, including technical delegates, key volunteers, table crew, and games officials. SOWI Director of Field Services Mark Wolfgram managed the new 3×3 basketball competition and Athletic Directors Amber Weinfurter and Michaela Harrison joined unified pair PJ Lynch and Pat Geigel as table staff for the event.
World Games Berlin certainly was an experience for all!
Relive the World Games experience and event coverage via the links below.
World Games Central (SOWI) Special Olympics USA Homepage Special Olympics USA Photo Gallery