Glendora To Be Host City For Upcoming Special Olympic Games

Officials announced Tuesday that Glendora will be one of the host cities for the Special Olympic World Games in 2015.

As part of the Special Olympics World Games Host Program, the city will welcome some of the athletes, many from around the world, and take the delegation on a tour of town and display Glendora’s history and activities, according to officials in a written statement.

The Host Town program will run from July 21 to July 24, 2015.

“The City of Glendora is honored to be a Host Town for the Special Olympics World Games,” said Glendora Mayor Judy Nelson. “We look forward to welcoming these world-class athletes to our community and to cheering them on during their competitions.”

Azusa Pacific University will provide housing for some of the athletes and coaches. Duarte, Pasadena, West Covina and Arcadia are the other San Gabriel Valley cities that have also been named as officially-proclaimed Host Towns. As many as 100 cities across the state are serving as Host Towns.

“We are thrilled to see so many communities eager to participate in this integral component of the World Games,” said Patrick McClenahan, president and chief executive officer of LA2015, the Games Organizing Committee. “The Host Town program will not only create lasting memories for these athletes and coaches from around the world, but leave a lasting legacy for the communities who are opening their doors, hearts and minds to host these inspiring athletes.”

The Special Olympics began in 1968 with Eunice Kennedy Shriver and her goal of helping those overcoming intellectual disabilities by using sports as a path to success.

The Host Town Program began in 1995.

The Special Olympic World Games are scheduled to begin July 25 and will run to August 2, 2015.