How to Become an Athlete:
By becoming a Special Olympics athlete, you have the chance to participate in years of sports training and competition. By receiving training to become a coach, a Special Olympics official, or by participating in the Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs), you will have opportunities for even greater development.

The fundamental difference that sets Special Olympics competitions apart from those of other sports organizations is that athletes of all ability levels are encouraged to participate, and every athlete is recognized for his or her performance. Competitions are structured so that athletes compete with other athletes of similar ability in equitable divisions.

Special Olympics Slogan:

Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.

Athlete Competitions:
Competitions are divided into several levels, including local, provincial, national, regional and global. The standard for advancement in competitive levels and the process for creating teams are considered to be the two most important elements of Special Olympics competition. Athletes of all levels and abilities have the same opportunities to advance to higher levels of competition.

Standards for Competing in Special Olympics:

During the two months prior to competition, the athlete must receive at least 10 hours of training.
The athlete must have previously participated in the level immediately below that which he/she aims to compete in. Exceptions are made if the competition is the first for the sport, if there is a special situation, or if the athlete's ability is in line with the standard for advancement.

How to Advance:
At all local, provincial and national competitions, winners from all divisions of each sport competition, with established participation quotas, have first priority for advancement.

If the number of winners exceeds the number of spots for advancement, winning athletes and teams advance according to random selection.

If the number of winners is not sufficient to fill all spots for advancement, second place athletes and teams are randomly selected for advancement. If all spots for advancement still have not been filled by second place athletes and teams, third place competitors are randomly selected for advancement. This process continues until all spots are filled.

How to Participate:
If you are interested in joining SO and becoming and SO athlete, please fill in the below athlete registration form or contact us to obtain the registration form and more information.

Special Olympics International East Asia Region Office:
Address: Beijing, Dongcheng District, No. 1 East Changan Avenue, Oriental Plaza, The Towers, Tower E 3, Level 9, Units 3-10A 100738

Telephone: (86 10) 8518 8500
Fax: (86 10) 8518 8497
Email: dcao@specialolympics.org