Team North Carolina earns gold at Special Olympics USA Games

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 26, 2026, 10:12 PM

Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Team North Carolina earns gold at Special Olympics USA Games
Summary

Team North Carolina has concluded its participation in the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis with multiple medals. Standout athlete Rio Byrd achieved four gold medals in powerlifting, excelling in bench press, deadlift, squat, and combination events. The Durham County cheer team also won gold in the Unified Small Team Level 1 division, marking a historic achievement for North Carolina. As the Games end, Byrd expresses hope that her success will inspire others.

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Key Details
  • Rio Byrd won four gold medals in powerlifting events.
  • The cheer team made history as the first Special Olympics NC squad at USA Games.
  • Byrd set two personal records during the competition.
  • A total of 36 athletes represented North Carolina at the Games.
Latest Updates
  • 10:12 PMYahoo SportsTeam North Carolina brings home gold from Special Olympics USA Games
What they're saying
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Among the standout performers is Wake County athlete Rio Byrd, who captured four gold medals in powerlifting.

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