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Jeff Gregory [Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Colorado] |
Special Olympics athlete Jeff Gregory of Aurora, Colorado, cycled 404 miles over six mountain passes during the summer of 2003. It was a test of endurance most cyclists wouldn’t dare attempt, but Gregory was well prepared with the support of the Special Olympics Colorado (USA) Athletes in Community Events (ACE) team.
ACE started in 2000 as a way to highlight the abilities of Special Olympics athletes in the community, and has since gained 150 athletes and Special Olympics Unified Sports® partners.
ACE members train for and participate in major cycling and walk/run events in Colorado. Jeff ’s father, Mike Gregory, touts the health benefits and sense of accomplishment that come with joining ACE and attempting difficult sporting events. “It really lifts Jeff above the average person in America,” he said. “It just builds his spirit and reinforces his ‘I can do it’ attitude.”
Athletes and partners who excel in their sports are invited to join the team based on an interest in the next level of competition, willingness to commit to a training schedule, ability to participate in at least two events, positive attitude and willingness to provide encouragement to fellow team members. The cycling team tackles events that range from 20 to 500 miles, while the walk/run team participates in everything from 5Ks to half marathons.
Special Olympics Colorado coordinates logistics for training and participation in events, provides individual training plans and uniforms and covers the cost of event participation. “We’ve found that our teams not only become role models during events, but also the training strengthens the relationship between athletes and their Unified Sports partners,” said Scott Weaver, President/CEO of Special Olympics Colorado. “It’s also become an extremely valuable program in the community for promoting our athletes and their abilities.”
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