Cleveland up against Nashville in bid to host 2030 Special Olympics USA Games

One month out from the deadline, the city of Cleveland, known as the home of rock ’n’ roll, is in a friendly race against Nashville, Tennessee, the capital of country music, to host the 2030 Special Olympics USA games.

The two cities are the only ones so far to publicly launch a bid for the event that would bring in more than 5,500 athletes, 100,000 fans and require more than 10,000 volunteers.

Justin Bradford, communications director for Special Olympics Tennessee, said the bids have already been compared to the “music battle” between country and rock.

“Two great states. Two great cities, steeped in music. It’s going to be a good battle,” Bradford said.

"Country music and rock 'n' roll coming together, right? Because, at the end of the day, whoever gets this bid is going to do a fantastic job for our athletes," said Jessica Stewart, CEO of Special Olympics Ohio.

Bradford said they're pitching the city as a great overall experience for the athletes and fans, and the music and entertainment Nashville has to offer is a big part of that.

“When they’re not competing, how are they going to explore the city? How are they going to experience music? How are they going to experience sports? That’s what we really want to sell is Nashville being one of those destination cities for not just athletes but tourists and families that are coming to visit too. and I know Cleveland is doing the exact same thing,” he said.


At 3News, we’re not here to tell you the news, we’re here to share the stories that you say matter most to you. Share your ideas, thoughts, concerns and engage in conversations about the communities in which we all call home.

Follow 3News on Social:

[carolynhayes]

Does that mean we're going to make Cleveland more accessible? 😊