Hall County Parks & Leisure is hosting the Fall 2018 Games for Special Olympics Georgia this weekend for the fifth consecutive year.
“These games provide an opportunity for children and adults with intellectual disabilities to develop motor skills, cultivate friendships, and experience the joy of competing in the athletic arena,” Hall County Parks & Leisure Director Mike Little said. “Hall County is truly honored to be a part of that process.”
Events, which include sports such as softball, golf, bocce ball and cycling, will take place Oct. 19- Oct. 20 in several venues, including North Hall Park, Laurel Park, and the Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center, which hosts the Special Olympics State Horse Show.
“We are very thankful to be able to provide a great range of competition level sporting facilities to make all of this possible,” said Little.
Nearly 2,000 coaches and athletes are expected to travel to this area for this year’s Games, which will offer a boost to Hall County’s retailers and hotel industry. Attendees will likely spend nearly $500,000 in the community during their stay on lodging, food, and special events. Athletes, families, and spectators are expected to spend at least an additional $150,000 on entertainment and transportation expenses.
This is the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics. In celebration of this milestone, Hall County Parks & Leisure will host a fireworks show for the athletes during the opening ceremony on Friday at Laurel Park.