Be an athlete

Sports is the core of Special Olympics - but you don't need to be a super star to be a part of the fun! Special Olympics is designed so that every athlete can participate - no matter what your age, interest or skill level.

Special Olympics sports training and competition is open to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Athletes aged 8 and older can train and compete. Children under 8 can train but not compete.

There are lots of things you can do with your friends through Special Olympics. Check out some of the fun stuff below.

• Athlete Leadership Programmes
  
  ALPs allow athletes to participate in roles previously considered non-traditional.
• Clubs, schools and transitioning
  
  Whatever your age, there's a way to be involved in Special Olympics New Zealand!
• Events and games
  
  Special Olympics New Zealand holds more than 200 events each year. Games are held every four years.
• Healthy Athletes
  
  Healthy Athletes offers basic health screenings and services in a fun and welcoming way.
• Law Enforcement Torch Run
  
  The Law Enforcement Torch Run is an awareness raising partnership with the New Zealand Police.
• Sports
  
  Special Olympics New Zealand currently offers 14 summer and winter sports.
• Meet our athletes
  
  Meet some of the athletes who train and compete through Special Olympics New Zealand.
• Young Athletes Programme
  
  Young athletes is sports play programme for young children with intellectual disabilities.