Harding University will host the Special Olympics Arkansas summer games May 23-25, marking the 26th consecutive year the University has hosted the event.

“Each year, we look forward to the arrival of this group and the excitement the athletes and coaches bring from all over the state of Arkansas to our campus,” Penny Davis, University conference center director and events coordinator, said.

Opening ceremonies will begin at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 23 at Harding’s First Security Stadium. Nearly 2,000 athletes and 500 coaches are expected to attend and participate in various sports including track and field, powerlifting, swimming, bocce, flag football and softball. The event will conclude at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 25.    MORE