RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — As the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games wrap up in Minneapolis, athletes from Special Olympics North Carolina are returning home with medals, memories and stories of perseverance.
Among the standout performers is Wake County athlete Rio Byrd, who captured four gold medals in powerlifting. The 22-year-old competed in the bench press, deadlift, squat and combination events, setting two personal records.
Byrd, who trains three times a week, said she was surprised by her success.
“I was a little nervous at first,” she said. “But once the powerlifting competition was over, I felt really good.”
Her medals were among Team North Carolina’s first of the Games. She was one of 36 athletes and seven unified partners representing the state in Minneapolis.
Special Olympics is the world’s largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities, providing year-round training and competition for more than five million athletes worldwide. Byrd said the organization helps athletes discover their strengths and overcome challenges.
North Carolina’s success extended beyond powerlifting.
The Durham County cheer team earned gold in the Unified Small Team Level 1 division, featuring athletes with and without intellectual disabilities competing together. The team made history as the first cheer squad from Special Olympics North Carolina to attend a USA Games.
As the Games come to a close, Byrd said she’s excited to return home and hopes her success inspires others.
Byrd’s advice:
“Just go for it. You might surprise yourself.”
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