Why do we bother having a "Special Olympics" anyway?

Answer 1

For many reasons. One, for political and legal reasons. Two, why NOT? Third and most importantly, the spirit of athletics is in the endeavor to achieve. This should not be taken away from people who have a physical shortcoming in some way, and is not any less worthwhile than those of people who don't have any physical defects.

Answer 2

I am going to assume that you are not being negative or judgmental, but that you really want some information on the value of Special Olympics. I am also certain that you have never been to a Special Olympics meet, because if you had, you wouldn't need to ask this question.
Special Olympics gives an opportunity for people with disabilities to compete in all areas of sports and athletic pursuits. The fact that a person has a disability shouldn't disqualify them from the chance to compete with others at the same level. There are all sorts of leagues for other children and adults without disabilities to compete - everything from youth soccer to adult slow pitch leagues. The point is that participating in sports can be a wonderful experience from many perspectives. Putting in the hard work to train and condition as an athlete, to improve one's performance, to put in perspective winning and losing, to be a supportive part of a team - these are some of the reasons that we subject our non-disabled children to organized sports! In Special Olympics, the coaches really do have those philosophical ideals in mind (in contrast to typical youth sports, unfortunately....)
The Special Olympic athletes' oath kind of sums up the whole deal: "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." If only more of us could adapt this philosophy!

Answer 3

In addition to the benefits gained by the athletes, others who support and volunteer are able to think beyond their own needs and gain a special appreciation for others and their contributions to the world. To really understand why Special Olympics is so special and worthwhile, you should make time to participate in the program. You will never again wonder. It's a tremendous feeling you get from associating with very special people who do not hide behind the facades we too often encounter in this world, people who will give their all to achieve a goal, and are so openly loving in such a genuine way.

Answer 4

This gives disadvanaged people the opportunity to compete. They need to have a regular olympics so that people who are not super athletes or people that do not have a physical disadvantage can compete. It provides a level of acomplishment and is wonderful for self esteem as well as meeting new people. The special olympics is a wonderful organization.

Answer 5

That is so wrong!!! That's as wrong as asking why were you ever born?
People with disabilities deserve to compete too. Someone in a wheelchair deserve to compete in sports. Do you know special olympics covers those who have prosethic legs also. Just because it's the special olympics doesn't mean that they are all mentally retarded.

Answer 6

Why wouldn't we have Special Olympics? It's an opportunity for people who are not able to participate fully in sports either due to a physical or mental deficeit to play sports, be physically active, meet new people, have fun, and have a chance to feel great about themselves. It's a great opportunity for people with and without disabilities!

Answer 7

Are you one of those bitter bored people who asks questions full of hatred aimed at the less fortunate sects of our society just to get a reaction and thus attention?

You probably could qualify for Special Olympics. Then perhaps you could improve your self-esteem.

Answer 8

you are either a child or an asshole -- why shouldn't we have special olympics? are you jealous? then why even worry about it!