Medicine Hat athletes acting as ambassadors for Special Olympics Canada Summer Games

“It’s exciting. I’m proud,” Linda said.

The ambassadors have an official role in helping to promote the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, but everyone involved will play a part in putting the spotlight on Special Olympics.

The Games are anticipated to have an estimated 1,700 participants, 1,500 volunteers, thousands of spectators, friends, and family.

Every voice can contribute to the movement, bringing sport to those with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

“You’ll have an amazing time seeing how much the athletes put out,” Linda said.

“You get a whole different perspective of how we go out to (participating) than other athletes.”

Karris, who played bocce at the provincial level last year, said she is excited to meet new people and show them around.

The athlete ambassadors were selected in February 2026 and have been busy in their roles.

They helped pick the slogan, worked a trade show booth, and decided on some of the items athletes from 12 chapters will receive when they arrive in August.

“We didn’t want to make any decisions about what the athletes are doing and what participants are coming to do without input from the athletes,” Games manager Kara Brake said.

The ambassadors will have a presence on social media, at events in and around Medicine Hat in the lead-up to the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.

They’re looking forward to seeing everyone else, too.

“Just to see the enjoyment on people’s faces,” Gaven said.

More information is available on the 2026 Games’ website, www.socmedhat2026.ca.

You can learn more about the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games by following @socsummergames on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok.

by Jesse Gill

Medicine Hat athletes acting as ambassadors for Special Olympics Canada Summer Games

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