COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – Dozens of Special Olympians got a spirited sendoff Friday morning at Columbia Airport as they departed for the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.
Family, friends, and supporters gathered to cheer them on as they set their sights on bringing home gold.
For the athletes, the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is an opportunity of a lifetime.
“It’s truly an honor to go. It’s really exciting but really nervous,” said Abby Sawvell, a track and field competitor. “We’ve been training for months and years for this moment,” Sawvell said.
120 athletes, coaches, and unified partners will represent Team South Carolina, competing in 13 different sports, including tennis and basketball.
Held every four years, the USA Games brings together 3,000 athletes from across the country to compete on the national stage.
For Sawvell, the sport has become more than a competition.
“It just makes me feel like I’m running away from most of my problems. It’s like you’re running free, but you’re trying to accomplish your goals,” She said.
Flag football player Ezra Harrison has that same determination. Alongside his unified partner Josh Wall, he says he’s ready to turn on his beast mode.
” Go Team SC!” the two chanted.
For many players like Harrison, the game is also a chance to share a unique story. He found out he had a learning disability when he was 19 years old.
“I thought I was going to have trouble talking and doing everything, playing sports,” Harrison said.
Instead, he’s proven that anything is possible with hard work and perseverance.
“I’m ready. I’m just happy I can win this gold for God, family, friends, everybody,” He said.
Kara Harmon with Special Olympics South Carolina says the organization has grown over the years, creating an inclusive space for everyone to compete.
“It’s a sense of home. It’s a sense of belonging, and it’s definitely a sense of pride for our athletes and their families to be a part of this opportunity,” Harmon said.
The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games run from June 20 to June 26. Team South Carolina is expected to return home on June 27. Supporters are invited to help welcome them back at the Columbia Airport around 1 p.m.
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