Louisville, Kentucky, December 8, 2025
Over 600 athletes participated in the Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament held in Louisville, showcasing inclusive competition in singles and doubles events. The tournament emphasized the importance of partnerships between athletes with and without intellectual disabilities, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the Special Olympics. Volunteers played a crucial role in making this event a success, ensuring all athletes had the opportunity to shine.
Louisville, Kentucky Hosts Special Olympics State Bowling Tournament
Louisville, Kentucky – Over 600 athletes from across the state participated in the Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament on December 6-7, 2025. The event took place at King Pin Lanes in Jeffersontown and Ten Pin Strike and Spare in St. Matthews, featuring both singles and doubles competitions. Athletes with intellectual disabilities competed alongside Unified partners—individuals without intellectual disabilities—in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
Event Highlights
- Location: King Pin Lanes in Jeffersontown and Ten Pin Strike and Spare in St. Matthews
- Dates: December 6-7, 2025
- Participants: Over 600 athletes from across Kentucky
- Competitions: Singles and doubles events
- Unified Program: Partnerships between athletes with and without intellectual disabilities
Background
The Special Olympics Kentucky Bowling season runs from August through December, with athletes participating in weekly practices to enhance their skills and establish accurate averages. To qualify for the State Bowling Tournament, athletes must finish first or, in some cases, second in their division at the Area Bowling Tournament. Four Area Tournaments are held in different regions of the state, and athletes must submit a current average that includes at least 12 games to be eligible.
Volunteer Support
The tournament relied on the dedication of numerous volunteers, including lane workers, Unified partners, official scorers, and awards presenters. These volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the event and the success of the athletes.
About Special Olympics Kentucky
Special Olympics Kentucky is a non-profit organization that provides year-round sports training and competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Serving more than 10,000 athletes statewide, the organization offers 14 sports, including bowling, and emphasizes inclusion and personal growth through athletic participation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament?
The Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament is an annual event where athletes with intellectual disabilities compete in singles and doubles bowling competitions. The tournament emphasizes inclusion and personal growth through athletic participation.
When and where was the 2025 State Bowling Tournament held?
The 2025 State Bowling Tournament took place on December 6-7, 2025, at King Pin Lanes in Jeffersontown and Ten Pin Strike and Spare in St. Matthews, Louisville, Kentucky.
Who participated in the tournament?
Over 600 athletes from across Kentucky participated in the tournament, including both individuals with intellectual disabilities and Unified partners—individuals without intellectual disabilities who compete alongside athletes with disabilities.
How do athletes qualify for the State Bowling Tournament?
Athletes qualify for the State Bowling Tournament by finishing first or, in some cases, second in their division at the Area Bowling Tournament. Four Area Tournaments are held in different regions of the state, and athletes must submit a current average that includes at least 12 games to be eligible. The Special Olympics Kentucky Bowling season runs from August through December, with athletes participating in weekly practices to enhance their skills and establish accurate averages.
How can I get involved as a volunteer?
Volunteers are essential to the success of the tournament. Opportunities include serving as lane workers, Unified partners, official scorers, and awards presenters. For more information on volunteer opportunities, contact Special Olympics Kentucky Sports Programs Manager Kathy Marshall at 502-695-8222 or via e-mail at kmarshall@soky.org.
Key Features of the Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament |
| Dates | December 6-7, 2025 |
| Locations | King Pin Lanes in Jeffersontown and Ten Pin Strike and Spare in St. Matthews, Louisville, Kentucky |
| Participants | Over 600 athletes from across Kentucky, including Unified partners |
| Competitions | Singles and doubles events |
| Unified Program | Partnerships between athletes with and without intellectual disabilities |
| Qualification | Athletes qualify by finishing first or second in their division at the Area Bowling Tournament |
| Volunteer Opportunities | Lane workers, Unified partners, official scorers, and awards presenters |
| Contact for Volunteers | Kathy Marshall, Sports Programs Manager, 502-695-8222, kmarshall@soky.org |
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Louisville Hosts Annual Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament
Louisville Hosts Annual Special Olympics State Bowling Tournament
Louisville Hosts Annual Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament
Louisville Hosts Special Olympics Kentucky Bowling Tournament
Special Olympics Kentucky Hosts State Bowling Tournament
Louisville Hosts Special Olympics Kentucky State Bowling Tournament
