Special Olympics of Ohio has extended the suspension of sports training and competition, including its state summer game, through July 6 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
“This is the first time in more than 50 years that Special Olympics Ohio will not hold State Summer Games,” said Special Olympics Ohio Chief Executive Officer Jessica Stewart in a press release. “We understand the impact of this is significant for athletes who were planning to compete and who also look forward all year to reuniting with their friends off the playing field. While this is disappointing we know that our love of sport does not compare to the importance of protecting the health and safety of our community. We are in this together and we will come out of this together, and stronger.”
“The decision to cancel Summer Games for the first time in the history of Special Olympics Ohio did not come lightly,” added Geoff Kunkler, Chair of the Special Olympics Ohio Board of Directors. “We understand how hard our athletes train to prepare for this event and how much they look forward to it, along with their families and friends.
However, given the unprecedented circumstances affecting our community and nation, the leadership within this organization believes it is of paramount importance to protect the safety and wellness of our athletes, coaches, and volunteers. We are looking forward to resuming normal activities as soon as it is deemed safe, and are excited for the many competitions and events to come.”
The decision to cancel the summer games was also based on the fact that Ohio State University, which hosts some of the events, has cancelled all on-campus activities through July 6.