World Special Olympics Coming to Idaho

FOX 12 Boise - World Special Olympics Coming to Idaho: "World Special Olympics Coming to Idaho

May 25, 2006 03:53 PM MDT
Boise, Idaho -- Idaho has been chosen as the host site for the 2009 World Winter Special Olympics.

Jim Grossman, a supporter of the Idaho Special Olympics, said he got the idea last December for bringing the games to Boise after learning that Sarajevo had dropped out of the running. Now, five months later, Jim said what began as a dream has become a reality.

'We will have for 14 days in February of 2009 -- the world's attention focused on Idaho,' said Grossman.

Boise was actually one of four finalists for the winter games, though Grossman believes members of the Site Selection Committee had their minds made up after visiting the Gem State.

'They finally made the decision over Germany and Poland and Reno, to come to Idaho because of our heart,' he said.

'We've been waiting forever to hear this, and it's been taking a long time, but we finally got it,' said Evelyn Martinez, an Idaho Special Olympics athlete. She's one of the estimated 6,000 participants who are now preparing to compete.

Martinez said she's much more accustomed to swimming events, but says she's looking forward to the winter opportunities. 'The snowshoeing event and meeting friends from all over the world,' said Martinez.

Of course, most Idahoans look to the event as a way to support the athletes. But one can't help but consider the economic impact the event will have the community. More.http://www.fox12news.com/Global/story.asp?S=4915088&nav=menu439_2