2019 Special Olympics World Games

The 2019 Special Olympics World Games, were held March 14-21 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. More than 7,000 athletes from 170 countries competed in 24 summer sports, along with 2,500 coaches and 20,000 volunteers. These were the first Special Olympics World Games in the Middle East/North Africa region. They were also the first World Games to be held since the fifty-year anniversary of the inaugural Games, which were organized by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, in Chicago, in July of 1968. 

The 2019 World Games kicked off with a star-studded Opening Ceremony in the iconic Zayed Sports City Stadium in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the largest sports venue in the Persian Gulf. In addition to sports competition, the 2019 World Games featured inspiring non-sports activities and programs, including Unified Sports experiences, free Healthy Athletes screenings, Global Youth Leadership Summit, and the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Southsiders athlete, Jeremy Macleod, was thrilled and honored to represent Colorado and Team USA in cycling.  He competed in a 5 K Time Trial, a 5 K Road Race, and a 10 K Road Race.  He proudly brought home a Bronze Medal, a 5th place ribbon, and a 7th place ribbon.

Jeremy has been completing in Special Olympics sports for 35 years.  He has competed in Basketball, Bocce, Bowling, Cycling, Skiing, Snowshoeing, Soccer, Softball, Speed Skating, Swimming, and Track and Field throughout the years.  Jeremy has been privileged to compete in one other Special Olympics World Games.  He competed in Speed Skating at the 2001 World Games in Alaska and brought home one each gold, silver, and bronze medals.

With hard work and determination, Jeremy was able to fulfill a lifelong dream.