The Special Olympics is an event that is hosted yearly by Poudre School District (PSD).

The event, which will host 27 schools and nearly 400 athletes, requires months of planning and coordination. Teachers and organizers begin preparing as early as September, holding monthly meetings that become more frequent as the event gets closer.

Mind Center teacher Kimberly Gardner has helped to organize Special Olympics for 14 years.

“We start planning early in the school year and meet regularly to make sure everything runs smoothly,” Gardner said.
The Special Olympics provides athletes with disabilities the opportunity to compete, build confidence, and experience the joy of sports alongside others. Unlike traditional meets, the Fossil Ridge doesn’t focus on records at all; it is more so about fun and who participates.

“There’s not a big emphasis on keeping records,” Gardner explained. “It’s really about the experience and making sure everyone feels included.”

In addition to the competition, the event involves multiple groups across the school and community. The marching band boosters, for example, help run a concession stand as a fundraiser, while student volunteers serve as “buddies” for athletes throughout the day.

“We have over 200 peer buddies helping out,” Gardner said. “They play a huge role in making the event successful.”
Overall, athletes, buddies, and teachers are looking forward to competing and spectating one of Fossil’s largest annual events.