Joe Metlick Memorial Heroes Pull
2026-08-22 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | KS
Joe Metlick Memorial Heroes PullAugust 22, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PMDowntown Colby, Kansas (North of 4th Street & Franklin Street)
Join us in Downtown Colby during the Sunflower Festival for the Joe Metlick Memorial Heroes Pull, a powerful and inspiring event benefiting Special Olympics Kansas athletes.
This special Heroes Pull honors the legacy of Joe Metlick, a dedicated supporter and volunteer who made a lasting impact on athletes and the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) community. In his spirit, teams will come together to test their strength and teamwork by pulling heavy vehicles down the street—all to raise funds and awareness for inclusion.
Located between the car show and festival vendors, this high-energy event is a must-see during the festival. Spectators are encouraged to cheer on participants and be part of a meaningful tradition that celebrates community, determination, and giving back.
Want to get involved or support a team? Donate or learn more here:https://charity.pledgeit.org/heroespullcolby
Come be part of the excitement and help us continue Joe’s legacy of making a difference for Special Olympics Kansas athletes!

Garden City Lemonade Battle, Torch Run & Trails and Treats
2026-08-26 18:00 - 22:00 | Golden Plains Credit Union, 1714 East Kansas Avenue, Garden City, United States
Garden City Lemonade Battle, Torch Run & Trails and TreatsJoin us on August 26, 2026, for an evening of community fun and support at the Garden City Lemonade Battle, Torch Run, and Trails & Treats! Hosted at Golden Plains Credit Union, this unique event brings together families, athletes, law enforcement, and local businesses—all in celebration of inclusion and the mission of Special Olympics Kansas.
The festivities begin with the Lemonade Battle, where local groups and businesses compete for bragging rights and the title of Garden City’s Best Lemonade. Attendees can vote Red vs. Blue by donating to their favorite stand, with all proceeds benefiting Special Olympics Kansas.
Next, lace up for the Torch Run, a meaningful tradition where law enforcement officers and community members carry the Flame of Hope in a show of unity and support for SOKS athletes. This inspiring run highlights the heart of the Law Enforcement Torch Run movement.
The night concludes with Trails & Treats, a family-friendly walk where kids can trick-or-treat along the trail, meet first responders and athletes, and enjoy activities in a safe, welcoming environment.
It’s an evening full of flavor, fitness, and fun—perfect for all ages. Come out and be part of a community event that truly shines!
Vote Team Red
Vote Team Blue

Garden City Torch Run
2026-08-26 20:00 - 21:00 | Golden Plains Credit Union, 1714 East Kansas Avenue, Garden City, United States
Join Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) supporters, officers, athletes, and community members for the Torch Run – Garden City, an evening event celebrating inclusion and raising awareness for Special Olympics Kansas.
The run will begin at Golden Plains Credit Union, where participants will gather before taking to the streets for a community Torch Run route. Runners will travel together through Garden City, finishing at Garden City Community College.
This LETR event is more than a run—it’s a movement that brings law enforcement and community members together in support of Special Olympics athletes across Kansas. Participants help spread awareness, celebrate unity, and raise critical funds that support year-round sports training and competition opportunities.
Whether you’re running alongside officers, cheering from the route, or supporting in spirit, the Torch Run – Garden City is a powerful way to show your commitment to inclusion and community impact.
Event Details:Start: Golden Plains Credit UnionTime: 8:00–9:00 PM

Cops at Donut Shops
2026-09-03 07:00 - 10:00 | KS
Start your morning with coffee, donuts, and a great cause at Cops at Donut Shops! Join Special Olympics Kansas athletes and members of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) at participating standalone Dunkin’ locations across Kansas on Thursday, September 3, from 7:00–10:00 a.m.
During this annual fundraiser, law enforcement officers and Special Olympics Kansas athletes will be on-site collecting freewill donations to support thousands of athletes across the state. Every dollar raised helps provide year-round sports training, competitions, health programs, leadership opportunities, and inclusive experiences for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Stop by your local standalone Dunkin’ location, enjoy your favorite coffee and donuts, meet local law enforcement officers and Special Olympics Kansas athletes, and help make a difference in your community.
Together, we can fuel inclusion!

South Central Regional Golf
2026-09-14 17:00 - 22:00 | Sierra Hills Golf Club, 13420 E Pawnee St., Wichita, KS, 67230, United States
South Central Regional GolfDate: September 14, 2026Time: 5:00 PM – DuskLocation: Sierra Hills Golf Course – 13420 E Pawnee St, Wichita, KS 67230
The South Central Regional Golf Tournament invites athletes from across the region to test their skills on the course in this evening competition. Beginning at 5:00 p.m. and wrapping up just before sunset, the event offers a welcoming and supportive environment for golfers of all abilities. Athletes will enjoy a beautiful evening at Sierra Hills Golf Course as they compete, build confidence, and celebrate their accomplishments alongside coaches, volunteers, and fans.
This regional event is part of Special Olympics Kansas’ commitment to providing meaningful sports opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities throughout the year.
Registration details will be provided by the event coordinator.

Southeast Region Unified Golf
2026-09-16 09:00 - 13:00 | Four Oaks Golf Course, 910 Memorial Dr, Pittsburg, 66762, United States
South East Unified Golf Tournament | Special Olympics Kansas
Experience the power of inclusion on the golf course at the Special Olympics Kansas South East Unified Golf Tournament on Wednesday, September 16, 2026. This exciting event brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities to compete side by side, demonstrating how sports create friendships, break down barriers, and build stronger communities.
Hosted at Four Oaks Golf Course in Pittsburg, Kansas, the South East Unified Golf Tournament is part of the Special Olympics Kansas Unified Sports® program. Unified Sports pairs Special Olympics athletes with Unified partners of similar age and ability, allowing them to compete together as teammates while promoting inclusion, respect, and teamwork through the game of golf.
Family members, friends, and community supporters are encouraged to attend and celebrate the achievements of the athletes and Unified partners as they enjoy a day of competition, camaraderie, and sportsmanship.
Event Details

Event: South East Unified Golf Tournament
Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Four Oaks Golf Course, 910 Memorial Drive, Pittsburg, KS 66762
Hosted By: Special Olympics Kansas Unified Sports®

KC Metro Regional Golf
2026-09-16 16:00 - 20:30 | Smiley’s, 10195 Monticello Terrace, Lenexa, KS, 66227, United States
Join us for the Metro Golf – Regional Sports Competition, an exciting evening of golf competition and skills-based activities for Special Olympics Kansas athletes.
Held at Smiley’s Golf Complex, this event brings together athletes of all skill levels for a fun and inclusive 9-hole golf experience along with a variety of golf skills stations designed to challenge coordination, accuracy, and confidence on the course.
Athletes will compete in a supportive and encouraging environment, showcasing their abilities while enjoying time with coaches, volunteers, and fellow competitors. The Metro Golf event highlights sportsmanship, personal achievement, and the joy of participating in Special Olympics sports.
Whether competing in the 9-hole round or participating in skills competitions, athletes will have the opportunity to grow their game, celebrate their progress, and be part of a positive and welcoming sports community.
Event Details:Location: Smiley’s Golf Complex – Lenexa, KSTime: 4:00–8:30 PMEvent Type: 9-hole golf & skills competition

KC Metro Regional Softball
2026-09-19 08:00 - 14:00 | Spring Hill High School, 19701 S Ridgeview Rd, Spring Hill, KS, 66083, United States
Metro Softball Tournament | Special Olympics Kansas

Step up to the plate for the Special Olympics Kansas Metro Softball Tournament on Saturday, September 19, 2026, as athletes from across the Kansas City metro area come together for a day of competition, teamwork, and fun.
Held at the Spring Hill Softball Complex in Spring Hill, Kansas, this Regional Sports competition showcases the dedication and talent of Special Olympics Kansas athletes. Teams will compete throughout the day while demonstrating the sportsmanship, determination, and camaraderie that make Special Olympics competitions so meaningful.
The Metro Softball Tournament is an exciting opportunity for athletes to put their skills into action, connect with teammates and competitors, and celebrate the power of inclusion through sports. Family members, friends, volunteers, and community supporters are encouraged to attend and cheer on the athletes.
Event Details

Event: Metro Softball Tournament
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Spring Hill Softball Complex, 900 N. Washington, Spring Hill, KS 66083
Hosted By: Special Olympics Kansas Regional Sports

Whether you’re participating, volunteering, or cheering from the stands, you’ll experience firsthand how sports create opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities to build confidence, develop friendships, and achieve their personal best.

South Central Regional Softball
2026-09-19 09:00 - 13:00 | Two Rivers Youth Club, 1700 N Ridge Rd, Wichita, 67212, United States
South Central Regional Softball Tournament | Special Olympics Kansas
Join Special Olympics Kansas for the South Central Regional Softball Tournament on Saturday, September 19, 2026, where athletes from across south central Kansas will compete in an exciting day of teamwork, sportsmanship, and softball competition.
Hosted at TRYC Sports Complex in Wichita, this Regional Sports event brings together Special Olympics Kansas athletes to showcase their skills, build confidence, and compete in a fun and inclusive environment. Throughout the tournament, teams will demonstrate determination, perseverance, and the true spirit of Special Olympics while playing for the opportunity to advance their season.
Family members, friends, and community supporters are encouraged to attend and cheer on the athletes. Volunteers are also an essential part of making this event a success.
Event Details

Event: South Central Regional Softball Tournament
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: TRYC Sports Complex, 1700 N. Ridge Road, Wichita, KS 67212
Hosted By: Special Olympics Kansas Regional Sports

Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers help create an outstanding competition experience for our athletes. We are seeking:

Certified umpires
Individuals with softball knowledge who are comfortable umpiring
Scorekeepers
First aid volunteers
General event support volunteers

No matter your experience level, there are opportunities to make a meaningful impact while supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Volunteer

Heroes Pull – Shawnee
2026-09-20 11:00 - 14:30 | Old Shawnee Town Hall, 11600 Johnson Drive, Shawnee, KS, 66203, United States
Heroes Pull – ShawneeDate: September 20, 2026Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.Location: Shawnee Town 1929, 11600 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 66203Contact: Ryan Warren
Get ready to test your strength for a great cause at the Heroes Pull in Shawnee! Teams will compete to pull two massive public safety vehicles—a Lenco Bear armored vehicle and a fire truck—each weighing around 30,000 lbs. Teams pull each vehicle individually for time, and the combined times determine the winners.
For an extra challenge, teams can participate in an optional third pull, where the goal is to use the fewest number of people for the fastest time.
The Heroes Pull is part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run campaign to raise funds and awareness for Special Olympics Kansas, helping athletes across the state compete, grow, and thrive.
Form a team, bring your strength, and be part of a day that celebrates courage, community, and fun. Pledge and registration info coming soon!

KC Metro Regional Fishing Tournament
2026-09-26 09:00 - 12:00 | KS
Metro Fishing Tournament | Special Olympics Kansas
Join Special Olympics Kansas for the Metro Fishing Tournament on Saturday, September 26, 2026, as athletes from across the Kansas City metro area cast their lines and compete in a fun, inclusive day of fishing and sportsmanship.
Hosted as part of the Special Olympics Kansas Regional Sports program, the Metro Fishing Tournament gives athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills, build confidence, and enjoy the outdoors while competing alongside fellow anglers. The tournament will be held at either Cedar Lake or Frisco Lake in Olathe, Kansas, with the final location announced once the City of Olathe confirms which lake will be stocked for the season.
Whether you’re cheering on athletes, volunteering, or supporting the mission of inclusion, this event celebrates the determination, friendship, and achievement that define Special Olympics Kansas.
Event Details

Event: Metro Fishing Tournament
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Cedar Lake or Frisco Lake, Olathe, KS (final location to be announced)

Stay tuned for additional event details, including the confirmed venue and participant information.

Southeast Region Unified Bowling
2026-09-30 09:00 - 13:00 | Holiday Lanes Bowling Pittsburg, 2406 N Broadway, Pittsburg, KS, 66762, United States
South East Unified Bowling Tournament | Special Olympics Kansas
Strike up some fun at the Special Olympics Kansas South East Unified Bowling Tournament on Wednesday, September 30, 2026! Designed specifically for elementary and middle school students, this exciting Unified Sports® event brings together students with and without intellectual disabilities to compete as teammates while building friendships, confidence, and inclusion.
Hosted at Holiday Lanes in Pittsburg, Kansas, the South East Unified Bowling Tournament provides young participants with the opportunity to experience the excitement of competition in a welcoming and supportive environment. Through the game of bowling, students learn the value of teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect while creating lasting connections both on and off the lanes.
Whether you’re a student, educator, coach, family member, or supporter, this event celebrates the belief that everyone belongs and everyone has the opportunity to succeed through sports.
Event Details

Event: South East Unified Bowling Tournament
Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: Holiday Lanes, 2406 N. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS 66762
Hosted By: Special Olympics Kansas Unified Sports®
Who Can Participate: Elementary and middle school Unified teams

Charles E. Watson Fall Outdoor Classic
2026-10-02 - 2026-10-04 | KS
Charles E. Watson Fall Outdoor Classic | Special Olympics Kansas
Celebrate the excitement of fall sports at the Special Olympics Kansas Charles E. Watson Fall Outdoor Classic on Friday, October 2, 2026. This premier state-level competition brings together athletes from across Kansas to compete in golf and softball, showcasing their hard work, determination, and passion for sport.
Named in honor of Charles E. Watson, a longtime supporter of Special Olympics Kansas, the Fall Outdoor Classic is one of the organization’s signature annual competitions. Athletes earn the opportunity to compete at the state level after months of training and regional competition, making this event a celebration of achievement, sportsmanship, and inclusion.
Family members, friends, coaches, volunteers, and fans are encouraged to attend and cheer on the athletes as they compete for personal bests and state recognition.
Event Details

Event: Charles E. Watson Fall Outdoor Classic
Date: Friday, October 2, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Hosted By: Special Olympics Kansas State Sports

Competition Venues

State Golf: Sierra Hills Golf Club, 13420 E. Pawnee Street, Wichita, KS 67230
State Softball: TRYC Softball Complex, 1700 N. Ridge Road, Wichita, KS 67212

About the Charles E. Watson Fall Outdoor Classic

Dodge City Kenworth Car Show & Truck Convoy for Special Olympics Kansas
2026-10-10 16:00 - 20:00 | Dodge City Kenworth, 2830 East Trail Street, Dodge City, 67801, United States
Dodge City Kenworth Car Show & Truck Convoy for Special Olympics Kansas
Rev your engines and support a great cause at the Dodge City Kenworth Car Show & Truck Convoy for Special Olympics Kansas on Saturday, October 10, 2026. This one-of-a-kind fundraising event brings together truck drivers, car enthusiasts, athletes, and community members for an evening of horsepower, community spirit, and inclusion.
Hosted at Dodge City Kenworth, participants will showcase their vehicles in the car show before joining a special Truck Convoy benefiting Special Olympics Kansas. One of the most memorable parts of the event is the opportunity for participating convoy drivers to be paired with a Special Olympics Kansas athlete, giving athletes the chance to ride along and experience the excitement firsthand.
Whether you’re entering a truck, showing off your favorite car, or attending as a spectator, every mile driven and every dollar raised helps provide year-round sports training, health programs, leadership opportunities, and competitions for athletes with intellectual disabilities across Kansas.
Event Details

Event: Dodge City Kenworth Car Show & Truck Convoy for Special Olympics Kansas
Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Time: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: Dodge City Kenworth, 2830 East Trail Street, Dodge City, KS
Benefiting: Special Olympics Kansas
Hosted By: Kansas Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics Kansas

Registration
Registration is $130 per vehicle and includes:

Official event T-shirt
Dinner
Entry into the car show
Participation in the Truck Convoy
The opportunity to host a Special Olympics Kansas athlete as a convoy passenger

Registration and fundraising links will be available soon.
Why Participate?
The Dodge City Kenworth Car Show & Truck Convoy is more than a vehicle event—it’s a chance to make a lasting impact. Every registration helps create opportunities for Special Olympics Kansas athletes to compete, lead, and thrive while bringing together the trucking industry, automotive enthusiasts, law enforcement, and local communities in support of inclusion.
Whether you’re driving a semi, displaying a classic car, or cheering from the sidelines, you’ll be helping build a more inclusive Kansas—one mile at a time.

2026 State Volleyball
2026-11-13 09:00 - 16:00 | Okun Fieldhouse, 20200 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS, 66218, United States
2026 State VolleyballDate: November 13, 2026Time: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.Location: Okun Fieldhouse, 20200 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, KS 66218Contact: Brent Kaiser
Get ready for an action-packed day of volleyball at the 2026 State Volleyball tournament! Athletes from across Kansas will come together to showcase their skills, compete with sportsmanship, and celebrate the joy of the game.
This statewide competition provides athletes with the opportunity to challenge themselves, grow their abilities, and connect with teammates and friends in a fun and supportive environment.
Join us to cheer on the athletes, celebrate their achievements, and be part of a day full of energy, excitement, and Special Olympics spirit!

Sip, Shop, & Inclusion
2026-11-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Bicknell Family Center For Arts, 1711 S Homer St, Pittsburg, 66762, United States
Tickets go on sale September 1, 2026, at 7:00 PM CST. Set your reminder—this event has sold out every year!

Join us for Sip, Shop & Inclusion, a one-of-a-kind evening where fashion meets purpose and inclusion takes center stage—all in support of the Special Olympics Kansas Southeast Region.
On Thursday, November 19, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., gather at the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts (1711 S. Homer St., Pittsburg, KS 66762) for a unique fundraising event that celebrates local businesses and the incredible athletes of Special Olympics Kansas.
The evening begins with a boutique shopping experience featuring local vendors and businesses, giving you the opportunity to discover unique products while supporting your community. Then, enjoy an inspiring fashion show as Special Olympics Kansas athletes take the runway, proudly modeling clothing, accessories, and products from participating local businesses. More than a fashion show, it’s a celebration of confidence, ability, and the power of inclusion.
Guests will enjoy shopping, refreshments, entertainment, and an unforgettable evening while helping support more than 1,000 Special Olympics Kansas athletes across Southeast Kansas. Every ticket purchased and every vendor partnership helps fund year-round sports training, competitions, health and leadership programs, and inclusive opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Whether you’re looking to shop local, celebrate inclusion, or make a difference, Sip, Shop & Inclusion is an event you won’t want to miss. Join us for an evening that showcases the strength of our athletes, the generosity of our community, and the impact we can make together.

The Victory Gala
2026-11-21 17:00 - 23:00 | Embassy Suites & Olathe Conference Center, 10401 S Ridgeview Rd, Olathe, 66061, United States
The Victory Gala | Special Olympics Kansas
Celebrate a night of inspiration, impact, and inclusion at The Victory Gala, Special Olympics Kansas’ premier fundraising event, on Saturday, November 21, 2026. Hosted at the Embassy Suites in Olathe, this unforgettable evening brings together community leaders, athletes, supporters, and partners to celebrate the achievements of Special Olympics Kansas athletes while raising critical funds to support year-round programs across the state.
The Victory Gala is more than a fundraising event—it’s a celebration of courage, determination, and the life-changing power of sports. Guests will enjoy an elegant evening featuring inspiring athlete stories, dinner, entertainment, exciting auction opportunities, and the chance to make a lasting difference for thousands of athletes with intellectual disabilities throughout Kansas.
Every dollar raised helps Special Olympics Kansas provide free sports training, athletic competitions, health services, leadership opportunities, and inclusive programming that empower athletes to reach their full potential.
Event Details

Event: The Victory Gala
Date: Saturday, November 21, 2026
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Location: Embassy Suites, Olathe, Kansas
Hosted By: Special Olympics Kansas

Whether you’re attending with friends, sponsoring the event, or supporting the mission through a donation, your participation helps create more opportunities for athletes to compete, grow, and thrive.
Join us for an evening where every victory is celebrated—on and off the field of play.
Why Attend The Victory Gala?
The Victory Gala is one of Special Olympics Kansas’ signature annual fundraising events, bringing together passionate supporters who believe in creating a more inclusive world. Funds raised during the gala directly support:

Year-round sports training and competitions
Unified Sports® programs
Athlete leadership opportunities
Inclusive schools initiatives
Health and wellness programming
Outreach to athletes and families across Kansas

Together, we can continue opening doors for athletes with intellectual disabilities and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the joy of sport and the power of inclusion.
More info: https://soks.org/victory-gala/
Tickets: https://soks.betterworld.org/events/victory-gala-2026
