2016 Special Olympics Summer Games Opening Ceremony (@sohawaii)

Special Olympics athletes from across the state will parade into the Les Murakami Stadium Friday, June 3, 2016 for the organization’s 48th annual State Summer Games’ Opening Ceremonies.

The Opening Ceremonies kicks off the weekend of competitions with a parade of athletes, coaches and families into the stadium with entertainment and a celebration for sponsors whose support helps to make the weekend’s events possible. One of the sponsors being honored this year is Par Hawai’i, which marks 26 years supporting Special Olympics Hawai’i’s State Summer Games.

The Opening Ceremonies also marks the finish line of the First Hawaiian Bank Troy Barboza Law Enforcement Torch Run, an event that features law enforcement officers from around the state running to raise awareness, funds and hope for people with intellectual disabilities. The Torch Run is named after Troy Barboza, a local police officer who spent his off duty time coaching Special Olympic athletes. This is the only Torch Run program in the world to be named after a fallen officer. Since its establishment, the Torch Run has raised over $6,800,000 for Special Olympics Hawai’i. This is the 18th year that First Hawaiian Bank has served as the title sponsor for the run.

More than 1,200 local athletes and coaches have been preparing since February to compete in powerlifting, softball, track and field, and swimming As part of the State Summer Games Special Olympics Hawai’i will provide a Young Athlete Program, Healthy Athlete Village and Olympic Town with activities for athletes and families to enjoy throughout the event.

To make a donation to Special Olympics Hawai’i visit: www.specialolympicshawaii.org/ways-to-give/donate-now.html