This October, Special OIympics Texas’ annual Fall Classic state tournament will take place in the Permian Basin cities of Midland and Odessa on October 3-5, 2024. During the Fall Classic competition, athletes compete in swimming, golf, equestrian, bocce, and softball.

The Fall Classic event is expected to attract 2,500 athletes and 5,000 spectators to West Texas. Funding for the next three years, with an option to extend for a further two years, was agreed upon when planning the move from Bryan-College Station to Midland-Odessa.

Special Olympics Texas CEO Tim Martin remarks that, “Special Olympics Texas is proud to partner with the Cities of Midland and Odessa for our Fall Classic games. The opportunity to showcase the beauty and hospitality of west Texas while simultaneously giving our athletes an incredible backdrop in which to meet friends, exceed expectations, and make memories to last a lifetime is unmatched.”

Competitions that are slated to take place in Midland are golf at Hogan Park Golf Course, swimming at COM Aquatics, equestrian events and opening ceremonies for 2025 and 2027 at the Horseshoe Arena, and “FUNdamental sports” at the Young Life facility. Odessa may host bocce and softball competitions, equestrian, and opening ceremonies for 2024, 2026, and 2028. 

“As Mayor of our wonderful City of Odessa, TX, I can say with exuberance that here in Odessa and surrounding areas, we are extremely excited.” Says Odessa City Mayor, Javier Joven, “What an opportunity for our city, the athletes, and their families to be part of this! Here's to a great event this October 2024.”

The Permian Basin community is invited to participate in the event, which will feature an Opening Ceremonies with Special Olympics Texas speakers and special guests. Attendance is always free to the public and will be found closer to the event on the Special Olympics Texas website:  WWW.SOTX.ORG

When: October 3-5, 2024

Where:  The Permian Basin cities of Midland and Odessa , TX

Sports Offered: Bocce, Golf, Softball, Swimming, Equestrian, and FUNdamental Sports (additional FUNdamental Sports information for Fall Classic can be found here). 

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