Bemidji Bowlers Fellows and Kiewatt to Compete in 2026 National Games

BEMIDJI — Katie Fellows of Bemidji and her Unified Partner Lisa Kiewatt are preparing to represent their community at the upcoming Special Olympics National Games. The pair will compete in the sport of bowling during the event, which is scheduled to take place in Minneapolis from June 20 through June 26.

To honor their participation and wish them luck, a dedicated send-off event has been organized for the local community. This gathering is set to begin at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 18. The location for this pre-tournament celebration is Lucky Dogs, situated at 201 Beltrami Ave. NW in Bemidji.

The send-off program promises a variety of activities designed to support the athletes before they travel to the national competition. Attendees can expect to hear from various speakers who will likely share insights or encouragement regarding the upcoming games. Additionally, the event will provide refreshments, specifically ice cream, for those in attendance.

A highlight of the afternoon schedule includes a photo opportunity with Paul and Babe. This segment is planned for approximately 1 p.m., offering attendees a chance to capture memories with these notable figures before the athletes depart for Minneapolis.

The National Games serve as a significant platform for athletes to showcase their skills on a broader stage. For Fellows and Kiewatt, this competition represents a culmination of training and dedication in the sport of bowling. Their participation underscores the inclusive nature of the Special Olympics, which brings together athletes with and without intellectual disabilities.

Community members interested in learning more about the send-off event or the National Games themselves are encouraged to seek out additional details through official channels. The specific website or contact information for further inquiries was noted as available but not fully detailed in the initial announcement.

As the date approaches, anticipation builds within the Bemidji community for the success of their local representatives. The send-off event serves not only as a farewell but also as a celebration of athletic achievement and community spirit. It highlights the support network that surrounds athletes like Fellows and Kiewatt as they prepare to compete against others from across the country.

The upcoming weeks will be crucial for the final preparations of the bowlers. With the games just days away after the send-off, the focus will shift from local celebrations to intense training and mental preparation. The support shown at Lucky Dogs on June 18 is expected to provide a morale boost as they head to Minneapolis.