Kiera experiences The White House at Special Olympics Reception

Bolton-based Special Olympics Great Britain (GB) athlete Kiera Byland BEM was recently an honoured guest at The White House for a special reception hosted by the United States President Joe Biden.

Kiera, who has been part of Special Olympics North West region since 2014 and has represented Team Special Olympics GB in cycling at two Special Olympics Summer World Games, is a board member for Special Olympics International (SOI) and Special Olympics Great Britain (GB), a Coach, an Athlete, Athlete Consultant and the current Global Athlete Congress Chair.

She attended the event alongside Special Olympics athletes from North and South America and staff from the international offices in Washington DC.

“It was an opportunity of a lifetime to help celebrate Special Olympics with President Biden and to network with all Special Olympics supporters,” said Kiera. “The White House was decorated from head to toe with a Christmas theme, along with a live band, it was truly magical.

“The whole evening centred around our ability to achieve, this included an opportunity to showcase our successes, through to an athlete singing, giving speeches. The opportunity to meet President Biden and shake his hand will be a memory I will never forget.”

Special Olympics helps transform the lives of children and adults with an intellectual disability and the White House event, titled a ‘Christmas for All: Celebration of Unity, America and Special Olympics’, recognised President Biden’s long-term support of the Special Olympics movement, which dates back to 1971.

“I think you all underestimate what you do for the community. What you give people: hope.” President Joe Biden began in his opening remarks honouring the athletes and impact of Special Olympics. “They see your courage. They see you standing up under circumstances they don’t think they could handle. And you do it. And it’s all about hope.”

“The President has been a longstanding supporter of Special Olympics,” said Dr. Timothy Shriver, Chairman, Special Olympics.

“His leadership has inspired governments around the world to join in protecting civil rights, advancing inclusive education, improving inclusive healthcare, and building community living, housing, and employment opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”