Local Special Olympics athlete nominated to Team USA

(VERSAILLES, Ind.) – A local Special Olympics athlete will have the opportunity to represent the United States in the 2027 World Games in Chile!

Kendra Franklin, of Holton, has been nominated to Team USA as a Level 2 Swimmer. 

The nomination comes after Franklin earned a gold medal in the Individual Medley during the USA Games in Minnesota this summer. 

Franklin was joined by her swim coaches, fellow athletes and friends when she found out about the nomination on Saturday. 

“If you know Kendra, you know this honor didn't happen overnight. It is the result of years of hard work, perseverance, countless hours in the pool, and an unwavering commitment to being the very best athlete she can be,” said Special Olympics - Ripley Ohio Dearborn (ROD) coordinator Greg Townsend. 

Kendra will compete at the Team USA Selection Camp in Pittsburgh in September. From there, the final roster will be chosen 

The Special Olympics World Games will take place in Santiago, Chile from October 16-24, 2027.

RELATED: The annual Special Olympics Fire Truck Pull will take place in Lawrenceburg Saturday. Read here.