2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games Welcomes Athlete Ambassadors from Prince George
The 2025 Special Olympics BC (SOBC) Summer Games Organizing Committee has announced the appointment of three athlete ambassadors from Special Olympics BC–Prince George: Chase Caron, Adam Spokes and Marinka VanHage.
These athletes will serve in a new, key role, contributing their leadership and perspectives to the planning and promotion of the upcoming Games, which will take place from July 10 to 12 in Prince George.
"These athlete ambassadors are not only accomplished athletes, but they also embody the spirit of inclusion and leadership that will define the 2025 Games," said Renee McCloskey, who co-chairs the committee with Lyn Hall. "Their unique experiences, both on and off the field, will help ensure the Games are welcoming and impactful for all participants."
In Special Olympics BC’s Athlete Leadership programs, athletes with intellectual disabilities are trained to take on advocacy roles and contribute to leadership efforts in public speaking, committee participation, and more. These new athlete ambassadors will work closely with the organizing committee to ensure that the voices and perspectives of athletes remain at the forefront of the planning process.
Caron, Spokes and VanHage are not only leaders in the Special Olympics community but also active competitors. Each is preparing to compete in the 2025 Summer Games and has previously participated in both provincial and national Special Olympics events.
In addition to their leadership roles, the athlete ambassadors will engage with local communities to build awareness of the Games and Special Olympics BC’s year-round programs. Their efforts will help to highlight the ongoing programs in Prince George, which serve local athletes with intellectual disabilities. These community outreach initiatives will run throughout the lead-up to the Games, helping to foster excitement and involvement in the event.
The 2025 SOBC Summer Games will bring together more than 1,200 athletes with intellectual disabilities from across British Columbia and Yukon. Participants will compete in 11 sports, including basketball, bocce, softball, swimming, and track and field. To make this life-changing event a reality, the organizing committee is seeking the support of approximately 1,000 volunteers and generous sponsors.
For more information on how to get involved, volunteer or become a sponsor, visit the official 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games website at sobcgames.ca. Volunteer registration will open in spring 2025.
For more information on Special Olympics BC and its programs, visit www.specialolympics.bc.ca.
