(Minneapolis, MN) - The Special Olympics USA Games brought together exceptional athletes from across the country for a week of competition and celebration. Among those shining in the national spotlight was Warren County native, Kelly Crabtree, proudly representing Team Ohio.

The excitement kicked off on June 20 with an energetic opening ceremony. Athletes from all 50 states paraded into the arena to overwhelming cheers from the crowd. The celebration featured a star-studded lineup, including performances by singer-songwriter Demi Lovato and award-winning jazz musician, Jon Batiste. Competitions began the following day and concluded on June 26 with the closing ceremony. 

Throughout the week, Crabtree competed in two swimming events: the 50-meter breaststroke and the 100-meter freestyle. After qualifying for the finals in both events during highly competitive preliminary heats, she secured a 4th-place finish in the 100-meter freestyle and a 2nd-place finish in the 50-meter breaststroke, earning a silver medal for Team Ohio.

“It was the first time for me to represent Ohio for the games, which meant that I had proven myself to be the best,” Crabtree said, reflecting on her achievement. “I knew when I went there that I had given it my best to earn that silver medal!”

Rhonda Schutte, the Community Integration Coordinator for the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities, traveled to Minneapolis to cheer on Crabtree and Team Ohio Coach Molly Tilly, a Springboro swim coach who was also selected to represent the state. Schutte praised Crabtree’s performance and confidence against elite national competition.

 “She was in the top heat, so you swim with the best,” Schutte noted.

Beyond the competition, the games provided an opportunity for athletes to build lasting connections.

 “My favorite part about the games was meeting other people from different states.” Crabtree shared.

To compete at the national level, athletes must first earn a gold medal at the state level and receive nominations from their local coaches and coordinators. Special Olympics Ohio then makes their final selections based on state quotas. 

Looking ahead, the 2030 Special Olympics USA Games will be hosted closer to home in Cleveland, Ohio. 

To support local athletes, Special Olympics Ohio accepts donations year-round. Contributions can be made by visiting  Donate | Special Olympics. Those interested in learning more about Warren County Special Olympics opportunities can contact Rhonda Schutte at Rhonda.Schutte@warrencountydd.org.

For more information, contact Claire Bishop at claire.bishop@warrencountydd.org or (513) 335-1026.