Since its first introduction at the 1987 Special Olympics World Games where 12 athletes competed in 
the table tennis competition, participation in the sport has grown tremendously. Table tennis is 
 currently one of seven nationally popular sports in Special Olympics. This is a fast-paced sport that 
requires excellent hand and eye coordination. There are elements of power and finesse which 
 athletes must possess in order to play table tennis. A "kill" can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour, 
  while a classic spin shot may send the ball spinning at thousands of revolutions per minute. Currently, 
10,033 athletes from 59 Programs throughout the world participate in this sport. 

             WORLD GAMES HISTORY 
In 1995, more than 170 athletes competed in table tennis at the Special Olympics 
World Summer Games in New Haven, Connecticut, USA. The 1999 Special Olympics 
World Summer Games featured 194 athletes from 31 countries. 
 
 

 Events Offered 

 1. Singles 
 2. Doubles 
 3. Mixed Doubles 
 4. Wheelchair Competition 
 5. Individual Skills Competition 
 6. Unified Sports™ Doubles 
 7. Unified Sports Mixed Doubles 

 The following event provides meaningful competition for 
 athletes with lower ability levels: 
 1. Target Serve 
 2. Racket Bounce 
 3. Return Shot