Sinjin Soper receives Special Olympics torch at Calgary closing ceremony ( PHOTO BY TODD KOROL)

By Brian Konrad

Torch passed to Medicine Hat organizers of the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in 2026

Mar 4, 2024 | 10:09 AM

The countdown has started for one of Medicine Hat’s largest multi-sports events.

Medicine Hat will host the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in August of 2026.

Seven volunteers from the Medicine Hat organizing committee were in Calgary this past week to observe the Winter Games version of the games.

In a release, Director of Administration Natalie Sauer said there’s more work to do.

“We all came home going wow, there is a lot of work ahead of us.”

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She also expressed confidence that the people of Medicine Hat are up to the challenge of hosting 1,500 athletes, plus thousands more visitors.

“Medicine Hat has what it takes between the volunteers and facilities. We know we can give them a fantastic experience when they come here in two years,” says Sauer.

Volunteers are already needed for higher level positions, and anyone interested should email
admin@socmedhat2026.ca.

A bigger volunteer drive will begin closer to the event.

Four athletes from Medicine Hat competed in the games in Calgary as part of the Alberta five pin bowling team.

Brielle Granger won a gold medal in her division, and Sinjin Soper got to receive the torch at the closing ceremonies on Saturday night.

Kara Brake accepts Special Olympics flag Saturday (PHOTO BY TODD KOROL)

Kara Brake was on stage for the closing ceremonies to receive the Special Olympics flag, on behalf of the 2026 committee.

The Special Olympics Canada Summer games are schedule to begin Aug. 11, 2026 in Medicine Hat.