Special Olympics Pennsylvania has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2023 Summer Games scheduled from June 8-10 at Penn State University due to air quality concerns. While this news is incredibly disappointing for all of us, the health and safety of our athletes, volunteers, staff and partners is our top priority.
People with intellectual disabilities have higher rates of adverse health conditions and are therefore at greater risk. Based on the best information available from a variety of reputable sources, we do not believe conditions in State College would permit us to safely conduct these Games.
While canceling events is truly heartbreaking for the athletes who have trained for months – as well as for our volunteers, family, friends, staff and board – we know that our love of sport can’t compare to the importance of protecting the health and safety of all involved.