Airdrie Special Olympics is back in action at the beginning of this year and they have a whole summer planned of activities. 

Sue Farkas-Fillatre, Media Relations Coordinator with Special Olympics Airdrie, is more than excited about what their future plans look like. 

“Our softball has already started, and then closer to the end of the month we'll have bocce ball and golf starting as well.” 

Farkas-Fillatre says Special Olympics in Airdrie gives athletes the competition they want while also bringing in the social aspect of competing alongside their friends. 

“It's technique and learning a sport. It's definitely for athletes and a social thing. They are going to get a chance to see their friends while having a chance to play some sports and be active as well.” 

Just like many other activities, COVID had a huge impact on the organization. 

“It did definitely affect our numbers. We had approximately mid 80’s. Now we're at about 65.” 

When the group returned this year, Farkas-Fillatre didn’t really know what it would look like, but one of their winter sports had an online element. 

“We certainly got a little creative, our bowlers had a chance to do an online tournament and quite enjoyed it."

Although a decision has yet to be made, Airdrie did get invited to a tournament in Lethbridge for softball. 

According to Farkas-Fillatre, Some athletes have gone on to larger competitions. 

“We've had some go to provincials, we've had some go to nationals. We haven't had any go to worlds just yet.” 

Farkas-Fillatre said for her personally, it's just nice to have everything back in action. 

“It’s just nice to get back to everything. It's familiar to our athletes, which is fantastic. We've carried on as an executive team throughout COVID making plans. Now it's nice to see everybody back.” 

So far the group has had activities such as bowling, swimming, floor hockey, and basketball and is headed into summer, which will include softball, bocce ball, and golf. 

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