Every four years, thousands of Special Olympics athletes from around the world come together to showcase their athletic skills and celebrate the true spirit of competition through winter sports. Through the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games, Special Olympics athletes will transcend the boundaries of geography, nationality, political philosophy, gender, age, culture and religion. This event will transform participants, community leaders, and fans world-wide through sportsmanship and spirited competition. These Games will help citizens throughout the world appreciate the values of respect and compassion, which the athletes and their supporters live by every day.

"Special Olympics World Winter Games provide a global stage for our athletes to showcase their talents and we invite the world to join our world of welcome — a world of inclusion and mutual respect, without bias or prejudice," said Timothy Shriver, Chairman of the Special Olympics Board.