The Special Olympics officially hits Los Angeles Friday, and California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) is set to host the Chinese delegation of athletes, the university announced today.
CSULB will host 330 Chinese athletes and their coaches in the Beachside Housing dormitories from July 21 to 24, according to a release.
“As a long-time partner of the Special Olympics, Long Beach State University is honored to welcome and celebrate the Chinese delegation as they prepare for the World Games,” said CSULB President Jane Close Conoley in a statement. “We are excited to share our excellent facilities and give our guests an opportunity to experience the wonderful things our university and the city of Long Beach have to offer.”
CSULB’s hosting is part of the Special Olympics’ “Host Town” program. A total of 7,700 athletes from 177 countries will stay in 100 host towns throughout Southern California.
The City of Long Beach will play host to the Special Olympics with seven sites. At sites throughout Los Angeles County, the Special Olympics are expected to attract about 500,000 spectators and 30,000 volunteers. This event is the single largest event in Los Angeles County since the 1984 Olympics, according to the release.