Special Olympics Brings Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Students Together

OBA Staff • March 13, 2025

Free event invites the public to celebrate team spirit and sportsmanship

Special Olympics 2023 in Gulf Shores, Photo by Brent Williams

Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) –  The Fourth Annual Island Special Olympics is set to bring athletes, families, and volunteers together for a day of sports competition, and community support. The event will take place at Mickey Miller Blackwell Stadium in Gulf Shores.


The competition is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18, 2025, with gates opening at 8:15 a.m. and the closing medal ceremony concluding at noon. Students with disabilities from Gulf Shores City Schools and Orange Beach City Schools will compete in various track and field events. The Island Special Olympics began in 2022, with Gulf Shores hosting the first event. Orange Beach athletes joined the following year, and the two districts have since alternated hosting.


“This event not only highlights the talents of our athletes, but also fosters a sense of unity, compassion, and excitement,” said Dr. Sonya Price, Director of Exceptional Education at Gulf Shores City Schools. “We invite everyone to join us for a day of celebration and support.”


The event will feature multiple track and field competitions, an awards ceremony, and interactive activities for participants. After the competition, athletes can enjoy games, karaoke, and a lunch provided by the Perdido Bay and Island Optimist Clubs.


The public is encouraged to attend and show their support. Admission is free, and families are encouraged to come out and cheer on the athletes.


For more information, visit
www.gsboe.org.

Share this article w/ Friends...

Sea Turtle Release Photo by Dave John Kriegler
By OBA Staff September 7, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf State Park will welcome families and nature lovers to its annual Turtle Fest this month. The popular educational event returns to the Gulf State Park Fishing Pier in Gulf Shores. Visitors can learn about sea turtle conservation through interactive exhibits and activities. Multiple local
Magnolia Springs 5K Race Returns to Support Local Homeless Initiative
By OBA Staff September 7, 2025
Magnolia Springs, Ala. — (OBA) — The annual Magnolia Run will return to Magnolia Springs in November. The popular community race takes runners through some of Baldwin County's most beautiful scenery. This year's event will raise money for a local group that helps homeless people. Race organizers expect hundreds of...
The new Foley Public Library is scheduled for completion in 2026. The new citybudget includes $65.5
By OBA Staff September 6, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Got it — The Foley City Council has adopted a $71.9 million General Fund budget for the 2026 fiscal year, taking a cautious approach to spending while continuing to prepare for rapid growth. City officials say the plan will help meet demand for services while maintaining financial reserves well...
Alabama Angler Catches Record-Breaking 550-Pound Swordfish After Epic 4.5-Hour Fight
By OBA Staff September 6, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A routine fishing trip turned into the catch of a lifetime for a Birmingham angler. Robert Fritze set a new Alabama state record when he landed a massive 550.3-pound swordfish. The fish broke the previous record of 448 pounds caught by Del Sawyer aboard the Sea Reaper with Captain Randy "Go
Orange Beach Fundraiser Breaks Records with $50,000 Raised in One Night
By OBA Staff September 5, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Makos Academics, Arts & Athletics Club held its biggest fundraising event of the year in August. The community organization brought together local families and businesses for an evening of food and entertainment. More than $50,000 was raised in one night to help Orange Beach students. T
Chamber Golf Tournament Returns to Support Local Schools This October
By OBA Staff September 5, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The South Baldwin Chamber Foundation is bringing back its popular Golf FORE! Education Tournament for the fifth year. The annual event raises money to support local schools and student programs across Baldwin County. King & King Attorneys at Law is serving as this year’s presenting sponsor...
ALDOT Takes Over Foley Beach Express Highway
By OBA Staff September 5, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) now owns and operates the Foley Beach Express. The highway connects inland areas of Baldwin County to the coast in Orange Beach. State officials completed a deal with the city of Foley to take over the road. The move comes after major improvements w
Orange Beach Launches Free Fall Fitness Program for All Ages
By OBA Staff September 4, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach Parks and Recreation has announced its Fall Fitness Saturdays program. The free outdoor exercise classes will run through fall. All fitness levels are welcome to join the Saturday morning sessions. Participants should bring a beach towel and water bottle to every class.
Foley Public Library Plans First Gaming Convention for Families
By OBA Staff September 4, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The Foley Public Library will host its first gaming convention this month. The free event aims to bring together local gaming enthusiasts and families. Organizers expect the convention to celebrate gaming culture in the community. The library hopes to make this an annual tradition for residents.
Downtown Foley Plans Football-Themed Community Event for Third Thursday
By OBA Staff September 4, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Downtown Foley is preparing for a special community celebration that combines local business support with high school spirit. The event will bring together residents, visitors, and student athletes for an evening of activities. Local businesses plan to offer specials and giveaways during the...
Show More