Ross County Special Olympics Trailblazers Shine at 2026 State Summer Games
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Chillicothe, OH – The Ross County Special Olympics Trailblazers came home from the 2026 Special Olympics Ohio State Summer Games with medals, memories and moments that will be cherished for years to come. The event was May 29-31, 2026, and is Special Olympics Ohio’s largest annual competition, bringing together athletes from across the state to compete in a variety of sports while celebrating inclusion, achievement and friendship. This year, our local program proudly sent 43 athletes to compete in athletics (track & field), bowling and powerlifting.
In the photo: Deion Ford brings the Flame of Hope to open the games. Submitted photo
Ross County athlete, Deion Ford, was selected as a torch bearer to carry the Flame of Hope into the opening ceremony at Ohio Stadium.
“[Ford’s] selection is a tremendous honor and a proud moment for the entire Ross County delegation, as he represents not only the Trailblazers but all Special Olympics athletes who strive to lead through courage and determination,” said Amy Beeler, Superintendent, Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities (RCBDD)/The Pioneer Center.
In the photo: JJ Barnhart clears the bar in the high jump. Submitted photo
The Trailblazers celebrated a historic achievement in athletics. Jamaine (JJ) Barnhart became the first athlete in Ross County Special Olympics history to compete in the Pentathlon, one of the most demanding events in track and field. Barnhart’s earned a Silver Medal, making history for the program and setting a new standard for future athletes.
Ross County bowlers earned multiple medals and competed among the top athletes in the state. The powerlifting team showed incredible strength and perseverance, bringing home Silver and Bronze Medals while continuing to improve year after year.
The athletics team delivered outstanding performances throughout the weekend, collecting numerous Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals. One of the standout performances came from the Ross County 4×100-meter relay team, which earned second-place in its division, a result that could place the team among the top 10 relay teams in Ohio.
“We are incredibly proud of every athlete who represented Ross County this weekend,” said Courtney Davis, Special Projects and Special Olympics Director, RCBDD/The Pioneer Center. “Our athletes demonstrated determination in every event and that is what we ask of them. Whether they returned home with a medal or a personal best, each athlete is an inspiration to all.”
Beyond the medals, athletes enjoyed many of the traditions that make the State Summer Games special including Olympic Village activities, swimming with teammates, shared meals, opening ceremonies and the highly anticipated athlete dance. The weekend was filled with friendships, laughter and memories that extended beyond competition.
The Ross County Special Olympics program extends its gratitude to the coaches, volunteers, families, sponsors and community supporters who make opportunities like the State Summer Games possible.
About Ross County Special Olympics
Special Olympics is a nonprofit organization that offers year-round training and competition in Olympic-type sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities ages eight and older. Programming is made possible through the support of volunteers, sponsors and donors.
If you would like to support the Ross County Trailblazers, please contact Special Projects and Special Olympics Director Courtney Davis at (740) 273-1219, or by email at rosscountytrailblazers@sooh.org.
About The Pioneer Center
The Pioneer Center, otherwise known as Ross County Board of DD (RCBDD), exists for the purpose of improving the quality of life for citizens who have a developmental disability. RCBDD is committed to providing quality services that give individuals and their families choices that enhance community participation and achieve a life of increasing capabilities.
