ISU

Special Olympics is the biggest international sport movement for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, U.S. based Special Olympics (SO) can be found in more than 170 countries around the globe today. Over 4.5 million athletes seize the wide range of training and competition opportunities.

Special Olympics competitions are held all around the world, including local, national and regional competitions, adding up to more than 108,000 events a year. Like the International Paralympic Committee, the Special Olympics organization is recognized by the International Olympic Committee; however, unlike the Paralympic Games, Special Olympics World Games are not held in the same year or in conjunction with the Olympic Games.

The Special Olympics World Games, which alternate between summer and winter games are held every two years.

ISU Disclaimer: "The ISU noticed that the applicable Rules for Figure Skating and Short Track Speed Skating events at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Austria 2017 are not in line/up to date with the ISU Regulations. In particular but not limited to, the ISU noticed that the safety standards are below the ISU standards which for Short Track Speed Skating are outlined in ISU Communication No. 1726 for Paddings and ISU Communication No. 1265 for Cut Resistant Clothing. While the ISU understands that considering the special group of Skaters involved, the applicable Rules may vary from the ISU Rules, the ISU nevertheless rejects any responsibility whatsoever related to the Special Olympics World Winter Games safety conditions. It is the responsibility of the organizers and participating athletes to establish the necessary safety measures and to ensure that the athletes can compete safely."