Ep. 151: Welcoming the Special Olympics USA Games to Minnesota

The 2026 Special Olympics USA Games are coming to Minnesota June 20-26, and they promise to be one of the most inspiring events our state has ever hosted. In this episode, we sit down with Christy Sovereign, CEO of the Games, to explore how this national event will bring together thousands of athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and fans in a celebration of achievement, determination, and inclusion.   Christy shares her personal journey with Special Olympics, what it means to lead the USA Games, and why the Twin Cities were selected to host this extraordinary event. We discuss the lasting impact the Games will have on Minnesota, the role of community partnerships, and how organizations like Mall of America are helping create unforgettable experiences for athletes and visitors alike, including the MDI Fan Zone at Mall of America on June 23.   From the excitement of competition and opening ceremonies to interactive fan zones, family programming, and the powerful tradition of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, this conversation highlights the many ways the Games inspire people of all abilities to connect, learn, and celebrate one another.   2:00     How Minnesota came together to win their bid to host the games 6:00     Christy’s path to leading this unique athletic event 8:15     What was the biggest surprise – or lesson learned – when planning for the games 12:25    The meaning behind the logo for the games 14:15    How Minnesotans consistently show up when it matters: more than 20,000 volunteers 16:00    The timeline for the 2026 games from the national torch run, to opening & closing ceremonies 18:30    All about the youth athlete program (ages 2 to 7) bringing kids together 20:00    Advice for first-time Special Olympics spectators and fans, and a challenge for you 24:00    The legacy will continue after the games, making an impact for our community   Visit: https://2026specialolympicsusagames.org/ Visit: https://specialolympicsminnesota.org/ Visit: https://www.mallofamerica.com/   Guests: Christy Sovereign, Chief Executive Officer, 2026 Special Olympics USA Games   Hosts: Jill Renslow   Presented by Bloomington Minnesota Travel and Tourism the official destination marketing organization for the city of Bloomington, Minn.