IdeaTek Athlete of the Month: Chris Barnes

Chris has been an athlete for 27 years and currently competes with the Air Capital Flyers of Wichita. He has participated in a wide range of sports, including volleyball, bowling, track and field, soccer, basketball, golf, and softball.

Chris truly embodies the spirit of health, leadership, and care for his fellow athletes. As a Special Olympics Health Messenger, he leads his team through several health-based challenges, including our annual Summer Games step challenge. He encourages his community to stay active by drinking water and stretching before exercise.

Watch his story now and get to know this month’s amazing athlete:

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In June, Team Kansas will represent our state at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games — competing against thousands of athletes from across the country. For many, it’s the biggest moment of their athletic career.

But here’s the reality: getting our team to Minnesota doesn’t happen without serious community support. Travel, uniforms, equipment, meals, and competition fees add up fast. Every dollar raised goes directly toward making sure our athletes can focus on one thing — competing their hearts out.