Results: Special Olympics
Published on 09/28/2019
My son participates in Special Olympics in the spring as well as the fall. The event he's practicing for right now is bowling. So, I thought I'd create a survey on the Special Olympics.
QUESTIONS
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Comments
1.
1.
Have you competed or does anyone you know compete in Special Olympic (any time of year)? Yes
13%
290 votes
No
69%
1585 votes
Undecided
3%
58 votes
Not Applicable
15%
354 votes
2.
2.
Have you ever been a volunteer at a Special Olympics event? No
58%
1330 votes
No, but I've donated money to Special Olympics or to an organization that helps support it.
8%
175 votes
No, but I'd like to.
8%
182 votes
Yes, and I found it to be rewarding.
5%
116 votes
Yes, but I'd rather not do it again.
1%
22 votes
Other (please specify)
0%
2 votes
Not Applicable
20%
460 votes
3.
3.
You probably already know that adaptations are made for the competitors that may not otherwise be able to participate. I'll share a few that make these events possible for my son. I'm sure there are other adaptations for other events that I'm not aware of, so please feel free to share the ones you know of in the comment sections. Of the ones I've listed, which adaptations were you aware of? Bowling: Ramps are provided for the competitors that need them (blind, hand/finger issues that prevent being able to handle the ball, etc.). Those that use ramps compete with other ramp bowlers - not against those that bowl traditionally (throwing the ball down the lane). The competitor places the ball at the top of the ramp, where it stays until the competitor pushes the ball - causing it to roll down the ramp and then down the lane to the pins. If a bowler is unable to do so him/herself, a volunteer places the ball on the ramp for the competitor to push. Some competitors adjust (aim) their own ramp, while others utilize a volunteer to do so for them.
15%
344 votes
Softball throw (spring event): This offers the competitor a larger ball to throw (helpful for some disabilities) than a baseball. The distance thrown is what ends up being measured.
9%
214 votes
Running or walking events (spring events): Those that are blind may use a guide rope for the shorter runs. The rope is held by volunteers & the competitor runs or walks (depending on the event they are signed up for) by holding the rope. (We bring a piece of PVC pipe for our son to hold in order to prevent rope burn). The runner uses it as a guide to keep him/her in his own lane on the track.
15%
339 votes
Tandem bike race (spring event): In addition to the regular bike races, the Special Olympics also has a tandem (2 seats) bike race. Each competitor has a non-disabled partner for the 2nd rider. All of the bike races also allow the use of foot straps in order to help riders keep their feet on the pedals. 3-wheel bikes are also allowed in most races which is useful for those with balance issues.
8%
178 votes
None of the Above
69%
1587 votes
Wheelchair ramps are brought into the bowling alley to make the lanes accessible to those in wheelchairs.
13%
298 votes
Other (please specify)
1%
18 votes
4.
4.
Have you ever heard the Special Olympics athlete's oath?" Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." Yes
20%
453 votes
No
69%
1582 votes
Undecided
11%
252 votes
COMMENTS