On July 22, nearly 400 special olympics athletes were welcomed to the United States at a special event hosted by Biola University. The Biola community gathered on Metzger lawn to celebrate the arrival of athletes from Russia and Macau, with lunch provided by Chick fil-A, followed by lawn games.

The city of La Mirada was chosen as a Host Town for the 2015 Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles. La Mirada was selected as one of 100 Host Towns and partnered with Biola University to host approximately 100 athletes from July 21 to 24, 2015.

The 2015 Special Olympics World Games was among the largest events in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games. The Opening Ceremony was held July 25 in the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, site of the 1932 and 1984 Olympic Games. President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama were honorary chairs of the games.

Special Olympics unites children and adult athletes with intellectual disabilities from around the world. The athletes demonstrate unparalleled spirit, enthusiasm, teamwork and displays of courage and skill. The games featured 25 Olympic-style sports and the Special Olympics World Games Torch Relay.

"We are happy to serve the community through our partnership with the city of La Mirada in hosting 100 athletes for the 2015 Special Olympics," said Biola University President Barry H. Corey. "This is a unique opportunity and we are honored to be a part of it."

Biola housed the athletes in its residence halls and provided food, while the city provided transportation and community events for the athletes.

“The host-town program provides an opportunity for the athletes to get acclimated to the country,” said Steve Vanderpool, vice president of communications for the Special Olympic World Games. “One reason for the selection of La Mirada was the presence of Biola. A community that has a university or college with housing is always helpful.”

For more information, contact Jenna Loumagne, media relations specialist, at 562.777.4061 or jenna.l.bartlo@biola.edu.