The current Board Chair of Special Olympics Washington, Kelly Campbell resides in northeast Seattle’s Lake City neighborhood and has been participating as a Special Olympics athlete for more than 30 years. She competes in swimming, softball, golf, bowling, and basketball.
Where can I play sports in Seattle?
Green Lake Rachael Jones
Green Lake Park (7201 E Green Lake Dr N) is really a one-stop shop for just about any kind of sport you might be looking for. There are basketball courts, tennis and pickleball, ballfields, and a 2.8-mile paved walking and biking path. You can swim in the Green Lake Community Center’s Evans Pool or outside in the lake. And there’s the Green Lake Boathouse, where you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and water bikes. Right by the park, Super Jock ‘N Jill (7210 E Green Lake Dr N) carries running gear and clothing; Retreat (6900 E Green Lake Way N) serves tasty breakfast bowls, coffees, and smoothies; and PCC Community Market (450 NE 71st St)—I work as a cashier at the View Ridge branch—is another good place for healthy snacks and drinks. I like practicing golf at the driving range at Jackson Park Golf Course (1000 NE 135th St), which has both a full 18-hole course and a shorter executive course. And for bowling, I like Kenmore Lanes (7638 NE Bothell Way, Kenmore)—it has tons of lanes and an arcade that kids love.
How can I get involved in Special Olympics Washington during my visit?
Come to a game or event! These happen throughout the year—you can find a calendar at our website. Anyone can come and watch, and the first time many people meet and see the athletes, they get hooked and really want to get further involved in the Special Olympics. Even though I’m an athlete myself, I still get so inspired by seeing others. And I think Seattle is such a good place for keeping active—it’s really a great sports city!
For more inside tips from Seattle locals, visit iknowaplace.org.
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