Competition

The fundamental difference which sets Special Olympic competitions apart from those of other sports organizations is that athletes of all ability levels are encouraged to participate. Competitions are structured so that athletes compete with other athletes of similar ability in equitable divisions.

Special Olympics NWT offers the following sports:

• Aquatics
• Rhythmic Gymnastics
• 5-Pin Bowling
• Figure Skating
• Speed Skating

Levels of Competition

Local

Local Special Olympics competition, as well as participation in generic (persons without intellectual disabilities) invitational competitions, is the first level of Special Olympics participation. Some athletes may choose to only participate in Special Olympics programs at the local level, while others may wish to advance to higher levels of competition.

Territorial/Provincial

Provincial / Territorial Games are held every two years alternating between Summer and Winter Special Olympic Games (Summer Games: 2005, 2009 and Winter Games:2007, 2011). Athletes are selected from the Provincial / Territorial Games to advance to the National Games. Due to the relatively small number of registered athletes in the NWT, SONWT can choose to participate in the Special Olympics Alberta Provincial Games to qualify athletes for the Special Olympics Canada National Games.

National

National Games are held every two years on a rotating basis between Summer and Winter Special Olympic Games (Summer Games:2006, 2010 and Winter Games:2004, 2008). Athletes are selected from the Special Olympics Canada National Games to advance to the World Games.

World

Special Olympics World Games are also held every two years on a rotating basis between Summer and Winter Games (Summer Games:2011 and 2015 and Winter Games:2009 and 2013).