This summer, Team Washington’s bowling delegation will travel to Minnesota to compete at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games alongside athletes from across the country.
The athletes representing Washington each bring their own story, journey, and connection to Special Olympics. Some are preparing for their first USA Games experience, while others have spent decades building friendships, confidence, and leadership through sport.
Together, they represent the dedication, resilience, and community that continue to define Team Washington.
Randi McDonough
Randi McDonough of Federal Way has also found confidence through competition. During her more than ten years with Special Olympics, she has competed in basketball, soccer, track and field, and bowling while overcoming social anxiety and shyness along the way.
Advancing to state competition remains one of Randi’s proudest accomplishments, and she continues preparing for Minnesota through weekly practices and staying active year-round.
Several members of the delegation bring decades of Special Olympics experience with them to the USA Games.
Abe Cooper
Abe Cooper of Lake Stevens has participated in Special Olympics for approximately 20 years, competing in basketball, swimming, bowling, and softball. Over the years, he has built lifelong friendships while developing a strong sense of purpose through athletics and community involvement.
Outside of competition, Abe works at Helping Hands Thrift Store sorting clothing and enjoys music and dancing in his free time.
Candace Madison
Candace Madison of Mill Creek has spent nearly three decades involved with Special Olympics Washington. Along with competing in bowling, basketball, athletics, bocce, and T-ball, she serves as a team captain, State Ambassador, and fundraiser.
Named Athlete of the Year in 2018, Candace credits Special Olympics with helping her become more outgoing while creating friendships that have lasted for years. She continues to train weekly and looks forward to experiencing the excitement and energy of the USA Games this summer.
Brian Ahlstrom
Kenneth “Brian” Ahlstrom III of Silverdale has competed in Special Olympics bowling for more than 15 years. Through the sport, he has developed focus, resilience, and composure that extend well beyond the lanes.
Brian also enjoys watercolor painting and works as a prep cook at Trappers Sushi. He values creativity, kindness, and encouraging those around him while continuing to sharpen his bowling skills through league play and training.
As Team Washington prepares for Minnesota, athletes across the delegation continue putting in the work, supporting one another, and representing communities across the state with pride.
The journey to the USA Games represents much more than competition. It reflects years of growth, friendship, perseverance, and commitment both on and off the lanes.
This summer, Team Washington’s bowling delegation will carry those stories with them as they represent Special Olympics Washington on one of the biggest stages in Special Olympics.
Follow Team Washington’s journey to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games at GoTeamWashington.org and stay tuned for more athlete stories in the months ahead.
