Special Olympics Mississippi Summer games kick off at Keesler Air Force Base

The Special Olympics Summer games are officially underway following the opening ceremonies at Keesler Air Force Base.

The Summer games for Special Olympics Mississippi have kicked off at Keesler Air Force Base with the opening ceremonies that took place Friday night. 

This year’s theme is “Adventure is out there”

“So, for 38-39 years Keesler Air Force Base has been hosting our athletes for our state Summer games and it’s always an adventure. This year the bar has risen even higher. We have over 500 athletes, 1000 airmen volunteers, over 9 different sports and they will be competing all day tomorrow.” 

Friday’s opening ceremonies featured an athlete parade, which showcased a combined total of over 500 athletes and volunteers that have come from all over the state, as well as the lighting of the cauldron to kick off the summer games. The torch which has been carried all the way from Byhalia, MS will be used to light the cauldron and will stay lit until the ending ceremonies on Sunday.

Over 500 athletes have come from all over the state, every athlete having their own sponsor. Some of the competitions offered include athletics, aquatics, bocce, bowling, golf, powerlifting, tennis and volleyball. 

This yearly tradition which has gone on for over 35 years now is run almost entirely by volunteers. 

“It’s growing, it’s really growing, and we are so grateful. We are seeing a robust turnout of our athletes and volunteers and our coaches. We are looking forward to a fantastic weekend.” 

For anyone who wants to come and watch tomorrow’s competitions, you’re more than welcome to do so, just be sure to enter Keesler through that pass road Gate only. The games tomorrow start at 9 in the morning and run until 4 in the afternoon.