Dignitary Letters 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games
Governor General of Canada
I am pleased to extend my best wishes to all Special Olympics athletes, as well as their families, friends and coaches as we mark the beginning of this summer's National Games in Medicine Hat, Alberta.
The Special Olympics are a testament to the power of inclusion and community spirit, showcasing the very best of Canadian excellence. The courage, resilience and perseverance displayed at these Games are profoundly inspirational.
This extraordinary event would not be possible without the tireless efforts of organizers and volunteers, as well as all those who have supported the athletes in their preparations. You have every reason to be proud of them and to be eager to witness their incredible achievements.
To the athletes: give it your all, chase your dreams, and know that Canadians will be cheering loudly for you from coast to coast to coast.
Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon
Prime Minister of Canada
I would like to convey my warmest greetings to everyone participating in the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.
This event brings Canadian athletes with intellectual or developmental disabilities together to participate in ten different sports. I would like to wish the players the best of luck. I am certain that you will come away from this experience with fond memories of a friendly competition.
I would also like to thank the organizers and volunteers for ensuring the success of this event, as well as for their commitment to making sports inclusive for all. I would also like to thank the citizens Medicine Hat for their warm hospitality.
I wish you all a memorable experience.
The Right Honourable Mark Carney, P.C., O.C., M.P.
Lieutenant Governor of Alberta
On behalf of His Majesty the King, I welcome everyone to the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.
The men and women participating in this year’s games possess more than athletic talent. They have that rare combination of passion and perseverance that has allowed them to work hard towards a singularly important goal and overcome whatever obstacles life has put in their path.
They have benefited along the way from the invaluable support of their coaches, their families, and their loved ones—and now during these Games, they will hear the cheers and applause of thousands of enthusiastic spectators as well. Everyone competing overthese five days should take pride in having reached this level of athletic skill, and I hope they find the experience rewarding and empowering.
As Alberta’s vice-regal representative, I thank all the organizers and volunteers who have made this logistically complex event possible. I wish good luck to all the athletes: may your talents shine just as brightly as the Olympic Flame itself.
Her Honour, the Honourable Salma Lakhani, AOE, BSc, LLD (hon)
Secretary of State (Sport)
Welcome to the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games Medicine Hat! A warm welcome as well to all athletes joining for this inspiring national celebration.
Competitors from across the country have come together to represent their provinces and territories, striving for personal bests and, for some, the opportunity to advance to the 2027 Special Olympics World Summer Games. Their dedication, perseverance, and spirit inspire us all and remind us of the power of sport to unite and uplift communities. Congratulations to all athletes on this remarkable achievement.
Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, coaches, and supporters who make this event possible. Wishing you all an unforgettable experience filled with pride and joy.
The Honourable Adam van Koeverden
Premier of Alberta
On behalf of the Government of Alberta, it is my pleasure to welcome everyone to Alberta for the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games Medicine Hat 2026!
For five days this summer, 1,700 participants from across the country will gather in our province to compete, have fun and celebrate the power of inclusive sport.
Alberta is proud to be the site of this exciting event showcasing the talents, hard work and determination of these incredible athletes. Their passion and joy are inspiring, and we can’t wait to cheer them on.
I know this is also an important moment for the coaches, volunteers, family and friends who support Special Olympians and make these games possible. Thank you for your commitment to expanding access to sport and the programs and competitions that help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead healthy, active lifestyles – and show the world what they can do.
Best wishes and good luck to the athletes as you shine together!
Honourable Danielle Smith