Special Olympics Ontario/London officially began a Special Olympics program in 1986. Since that time, they have grown to be a vibrant organization that provides sports and fitness opportunities for over 400 athletes in London. As an entirely volunteer organization, Special Olympics Ontario/London has over 200 volunteers  supporting their different programs. 

Currently, London athletes participate in 17 Olympic-style sports. Programs are offered year-round, 7 days a week.  Athletes hone their skills in their various sports and some challenge themselves by attempting to advance through Regional Competitions, then Provincial, then National and finally World Games. 

London athletes celebrate their successes at an annual Sports Banquet where each sport honours an athlete for their outstanding efforts. The evening culminates with the presentation of the Murray Faulkner Sportsperson of the Year Award, London’s highest honour for an athlete. 

As London athletes can attest, Special Olympics is about more than just sport – it’s about friendship, self-esteem, dignity and joy. London is proud to be a part of a global movement that every day, changes lives, helping people to be stronger, inside and out.