The City of Midland has expressed its enthusiasm for being chosen by Special Olympics Texas to host the Fall Classic. The city, along with Odessa, will host the event from October 3-5.
According to an April 17 Facebook post by the City of Midland, individuals interested in participating should stay informed as more details about the event will be released. The post further suggested that the Fall Classic is an event "people would want to join in on."
In a press release, Special Olympics Texas revealed that the event will take place at various locations throughout Midland and Odessa. It is expected to attract approximately 2,500 athletes and 5,000 spectators. The organization confirmed that the event is free and open to the public.
Permian Basin stations KMID and KPEJ reported that athletes will compete in a variety of sports including swimming, golf, equestrian events, bocce, and softball. Midland Mayor Lori Blong told the stations that it would be convenient for children to participate close to home with their families and friends nearby to support them. According to these stations, Tim Martin, head of Special Olympics Texas, expressed confidence in West Texas's ability to host a successful event saying it "is going to blow this out of the water."
The non-profit organization also announced that Exxon, Wellpoint, Diamondback Energy, ConocoPhillips, and Saguaro Petroleum LLC have joined Midland and Odessa as co-sponsors for the event. Special Olympics Texas was established in June 1969 following Eunice Kennedy Shriver's initiative of holding a summer day camp for children and adults with intellectual disabilities at her home in Maryland six years prior. The organization obtained non-profit status in 1978.