Ryan Cook

Bristol, CT

Ryan Cook is an athlete who is heading to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games to compete in bowling. Ryan is 23 years old and lives in Bristol where he works at Walgreens as a Customer Services Associate. He is a graduate of Terryville High School and the UPP Program at Post University in Waterbury.  Ryan has been involved in Special Olympics - with the Special Olympics Bristol team - since 2021. He has participated in bowling, cross-country skiing, golf, and track and field. 

“Special Olympics has changed my life because I am able to continue competing in some of the sports I competed in when I was in high school and I also learned new sports,” says Ryan. 

Ryan says that Special Olympics has also helped him meet new friends who share his passion for sports. 

The biggest challenge Paul has had to overcome is tearing his ACL in April 2023. He had surgery in August 2023 for a complete ACL tear and meniscus repair. He worked really hard in physical therapy and came back stronger than ever! Ryan is most proud of his hard work and dedication to doing well in bowling and running. 

Ryan was awarded the Ron Choinere Award by the Bristol Tramps Sports Reunion Committee for outstanding service to the community and support of sports activities in Bristol. He also ran cross country, indoor, and outdoor track competitively for four years in high school. Ryan was a member of the Leo Club (Lions) for four years in high school. 

He enjoys listening to music, playing video games, going to the gym, and line dancing. He also loves trains and riding roller coasters! He admires his mom, dad, brother, and sister the most because they are supportive and helpful and they have taught him that hard work pays off. 

“Attending the USA Games is a dream come true. It has been a goal of mine since starting with Special Olympics,” says Ryan. Ryan is looking forward to competing, meeting new people, and watching other events. To prepare, he’s training multiple times a week and going to the gym to increase his strength.