Athlete Stories

Brandon Knight is an athlete with our Special Olympics Groton Program. He began competing in floor hockey and basketball with Special Olympics over 10 years ago, but once he started athletics, he took off and never looked back. He is this year's recipient of our Eunice Kennedy Shriver Award, which is presented annually to an athlete who best exemplifies the spirit of Special Olympics.

Originally competing in the 100-, 200- and 400-meter runs, Brandon completely changed his running style to build strength and stamina for longer distances. His success at time trials earned him a spot on Team Connecticut for the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games. At the Games in Orlando this past June, he won a gold medal in the 4x400, bronze medal in the 3000M and 4th place ribbon in the1500M.

Brandon shares inspirational training videos with his fellow athletes through participation in the SOCT Fit 5 Club and serves as a Global Messenger to share his Special Olympics experiences and promote opportunity and inclusion for all Special Olympics athletes.

Brandon also enjoys video games and movies. He is a Seattle Seahawks fan!