VIDEO: Special Olympics Canada Summer Games officially open in Medicine Hat

(Video Credit: Jett Schwaier/CHAT News)

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Medicine Hat Mayor Lindsay Clark officially declared the Games open, welcoming the athletes and encouraging them to embrace the experience.

“For the next several days, Medicine Hat is your home,” Clark told the crowd. “We hope you enjoy everything our community has to offer and experience the warmth and hospitality that makes our city so special.”

The ceremony also highlighted the work of more than 1,500 volunteers who are helping run the Games.

Special Olympics Canada CEO Gail Hamamoto told athletes the opening ceremony was their moment after years of training and preparation.

The ceremony also honoured the late Dr. Frank Hayden, a Canadian pioneer whose research helped demonstrate the benefits of sport for people with intellectual disabilities and played a key role in the creation and expansion of the Special Olympics movement.

Arbour also paid tribute to Hayden, saying his work helped show that people with intellectual disabilities could thrive through sport and physical activity.

The Games’ theme, “We Shine Together,” was a recurring message throughout the ceremony, with speakers emphasizing inclusion, community and the connections created through sport.

Athletes also recited the Special Olympics oath: “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

The ceremony featured performances by Medicine Hat Sings and Toxic Elite Cheerleading, accompanied by a blessing and prayer from local Indigenous Elder Charlie Fox.

The Flame of Hope was also brought into Co-op Place before the cauldron was lit, officially marking the start of the Games.

Competition began on Tuesday, with athletes taking part in divisioning events before the opening ceremony as full competition continues Wednesday through Saturday.

Organizers said the event represents years of work and preparation by the community, with thousands of athletes, families, volunteers and supporters now gathered in the city.

“Because you made this,” Games Organizing Committee chair Natalie Sauer told the athletes.

“You are here with us.”

The day also marked the end of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which made its way into Medicine Hat ahead of the Games following a province-wide tour.

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READ: Corbin Mayer returns home and takes Solar Plunge after carrying Special Olympics torch across Alberta

by Jett Schwaier

VIDEO: Special Olympics Canada Summer Games officially open in Medicine Hat

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