Participation patterns in an urban Special Olympics programme

Abstract

Accessible summary Purpose of the study was to examine participation patterns of people with intellectual disabilities in Special Olympics. Participation of athletes according to age, sex and sports participated in were analysed. Findings indicated that the demographics of this Special Olympics cohort were predominantly male, older in years than other sport organisations and engaged in a small number of sports. Results indicated there are significant gaps in relation to participation that may have long‐term impacts on health for people with intellectual disabilities. SummarySpecial Olympics is the largest competitive sports organisation in the world for athletes with intellectual disabilities. The organisation has attempted to make adjustments to its programmes in order to stay relevant to participants. However, minimal investigation relative to participation patterns and demographics of athletes are available. Given the trend towards inclusive programmes, such analysis appears relevant. The purpose of the present investigation was to examine the population demographics and participation characteristics of Special Olympics participants. Registration information for 284 athletes was analysed with regard to age, sex and sports participated in. Findings indicated that the demographics of this Special Olympics cohort were predominantly male, older in years than other sport organisations and engaged in a small number of sports. Results are discussed in terms of the impact of an ageing athlete population, female participation patterns, health‐related physical fitness implications of participation in certain sports and the range of activities offered.