This past weekend, more than 1,100 athletes came together in Richmond for the 2025 Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games. Over the course of two days, athletes competed in five sports—track and field, swimming, softball, tennis, and bocce—supported by 230 coaches and more than 2,000 volunteers.
The Games officially kicked off Friday night at Robins Stadium with the Opening Ceremony. Law enforcement agencies from across Virginia spent the week running the Flame of Hope through cities and towns across the Commonwealth. Their journey came together for a final mile into the stadium, symbolically connecting agencies across the state and lighting the cauldron to begin the Games. The Opening Ceremony also featured a performance by Nina Daig, athlete and volunteer recognitions, and support from CBS 6 News.
Competitions were held Saturday and Sunday at venues throughout the Richmond area. Athletes also had access to free health screenings through the Healthy Athletes program, with more than 500 completed over the weekend.
Saturday night wrapped with the Olympic Celebration, including bingo, dancing, and a chance for athletes to wind down after a full day of competition.
Thank you to the athletes who gave it their all, the coaches who guided them, the volunteers who kept everything running, and the sponsors who made it all possible. The Games don’t happen without you.