This past weekend, more than 1,200 athletes competed in 5 sports throug the Richmond area at the 2023 Summer Games. The Games, which are our largest sporting event of the year, are a true showcase of our athlete's abilities.
Opening Ceremony
The Opening Ceremony of the 2023 Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games was a night to remember. Alex Hansen, a Special Olympics Global Messenger, co-hosted the event with CBS6 News's very own GeNienne Samuels. Athlete Jay Choi performed the national anthem on his violin and for the first time ever, the Special Olympics Athlete Oath was recited in Spanish. There was also a captivating performance by Gifted Hands, a talented performer living with a physical disability.
However, the highlight of the ceremony was when Tim Nash, a deaf athlete, lit the cauldron to officially open the games. This moment sparked a silent but powerful reaction from the audience, as thousands of people expressed their joy through sign language applause.
Competition
Throughout the weekend athletes competed for gold in bowling, softball, swimming, tennis, and track and field. Fans came from all over Virginia to witness each point scored, each strike in the bowling alley, every stroke in the swimming pools, each volley in tennis, and every stride on the track and field.
It was an incredible testament to the spirit of competition, perseverance, and athletic achievement that defines the Summer Games.
Thank You
This year's event wouldn't have been possible without our tremendous partners and sponors. The Games, were presented by Hardee’s, Sheetz, the University of Richmond, CBS6, Virginia Knights of Columbus, the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Virginia, ESPN 106.1 and 103.7 Your Variety.
"We were delighted to host the Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games on the University of Richmond’s campus. It was an honor to be a part of such a supportive and inclusive community and welcome such dedicated volunteers and talented, driven athletes. My wife Tina and I were so inspired by these incredible champions and enjoyed cheering them on. It was a wonderful event."
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