The 2024 Marathon of Sport Winnipeg is a wonderful event that showcases the talent and tenacity of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
"Motionball is a national not-for-profit organization and it empowers young Canadians to be leaders in our communities, raising funds and awareness for Special Olympics," says Paige Small, co-event Director of Motionball Winnipeg.
The Marathon of Sport Winnipeg takes place September 15 from 9:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the Dakota Community Centre, hosted by Motionball Winnipeg.
"This event happens once a year in September and participants spend a day playing sports alongside Special Olympic athletes from our community while raising funds and awareness for the Special Olympics movement. This year we have 32 teams comprised of standard teams of members of the community as well as corporate teams that have sponsored the event, and they will be joined with one to two Special Olympic athletes per team, to play a true marathon of sport."
There are over 60 Special Olympic athletes participating in the event this year.
"I think what sets this event apart is you see firsthand the impact that sport has on Special Olympic athletes. We are not just sitting at a table but out there playing sports with these athletes. It's impactful to see the amount of joy it brings to these athletes."
The games of play range from well-known sports such as basketball to more unique games such as Kin Ball, where teams hit a gigantic ball to teammates.
"It's so fun to bring together members of the community," says Small. "I think it's incredible to be a part of something that connects you to more to your community. I have had some of the best interactions with our Special Olympic athletes."
The entire event is run by passionate volunteers who have other full-time jobs and love connecting with this community.
"Seventy per cent of the funds raised stay right here in Manitoba and the remainder goes towards Special Olympics Canada Foundation as well as the No Good Way Campaign."
