Frank Hayden, Special Olympics Founder, Dies at 96
Why this is here: Frank Hayden’s research in the 1960s established the benefits of exercise for people with intellectual disabilities, a finding that helped launch a global athletic movement.
Special Olympics Canada reports Frank Hayden died Saturday in Canada at age 96. He leaves behind four children, seven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
Hayden’s research during the 1960s showed exercise benefited people with intellectual disabilities. This work directly led to the founding of the Special Olympics by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968.
The Special Olympics now serves millions of athletes in over 170 countries. Hayden received several honors for his contributions, including induction into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame and appointment as a Companion of the Order of Canada. A school in Burlington, Ontario, also bears his name.
CEO Gail Hamamoto notes Hayden’s work enabled athletes with intellectual disabilities to reach their full potential. A celebration of life will occur June 19 at Dr.
Frank J. Hayden Secondary School, but the long-term impact of his research requires continued support and study.
Surfaced by the Thriving lens — one of the vital signs ovr.news reads.
How we evaluated this
AI summary
read the original for the full story — Read on globalnews.ca . How we work →