Special Olympics once again brings together hundreds of athletes in Long Beach

There was high energy and a competitive atmosphere at Cal State Long Beach this weekend as the Special Olympics Southern California Summer Games returned, bringing together hundreds of athletes, coaches and supporters for a celebration of sport, determination and inclusion.

This year’s Special Olympics kicked off on Friday, June 5, 2026 with an opening ceremony at the LSB Financial Credit Union Pyramid, formerly known as as the Walter Pyramid. The ceremony included the official lighting of the cauldron, celebrating the start of the Summer Games.

The event continued with two full days of competition on Saturday and Sunday, June 6-7, with athletes from across Southern California participating in track and field, basketball, bocce, unified bocce, flag football, unified flag football and swimming. Unified events, organizers said, encourage teamwork and include athletes with and without intellectual disabilities playing together on the same team.

Summer Games celebrate the power of sport and the role it plays in uniting communities and encouraging inclusion among athletes of all abilities.

“Summer Games reflects the heart of our mission — empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities through the life-changing impact of sports,” Kelly Pond, president and CEO of Special Olympics Southern California, said in a statement. “The athletes inspire us every day with their energy, determination, confidence and spirit.”

In addition to the competitions, the Summer Games included a “Healthy Athletes” program, where participants can receive free health screenings in seven different disciplines in a relaxed setting, administered by volunteer health care professionals, according to a press release. The inclusive Young Athletes area at the Games gave children ages 2-7 a chance to fine-tune motor skills, test hand-eye coordination, and get a preview of what they’ll experience as a future Special Olympics.

There was also a festival with music, games and activities for the entire family; a fan zone where supporters could make signs to cheer on athletes; an art display by SOSC athlete Samantha Roman; and merchandise for sale.