Special Olympics Canada Foundation fundraiser returning to Kelowna

Special Olympics Canada Foundation fundraiser returning to Kelowna

Published 5:00 am Thursday, July 16, 2026

Motionball is returning to Kelowna this fall for the 2026 Marathon of Sport, a nationwide event that brings together participants and Special Olympic athletes to compete in a day of inclusive sports and activities.

​The annual event will bring together 40 teams and more than 60 Special Olympics athletes from Kelowna to raise money for the Special Olympics Canada Foundation, with a goal of $175,000.

​Co-Event Director Kelsey Hanna believes Marathon of Sport is about so much more than the games.

​“It brings our community together and creates meaningful opportunities for participants to compete alongside Special Olympics athletes, build friendships and experience inclusion firsthand,” said Hanna.

​“With more than half of our team spots already filled, we are excited to build on that momentum and make this our largest event yet.”

​Organizers of Motionball’s Marathon of Sport Kelowna say each team will be composed of eight to 10 players with or without athletic experience and that individual participants can register independently before being matched to a team.

​Participants will receive breakfast, lunch, a T-shirt and a ball cap. The day will also feature a live DJ, raffles, prizes, team awards, fundraising awards and additional activities throughout City Park.

Some games played in previous years have included soccer, football, ultimate frisbee, volleyball, bench ball and more.

​Those interested in being a part of the action this fall can register through the Motionball website.

​This event has been an annual fundraiser in Kelowna for 13 years, raising more than $1.6 million for the Special Olympics Canada Foundation.

​Marathon of Sport Kelowna takes place on Sept. 19 at City Park.