Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO) athlete Charlie Phillips has achieved remarkable success at the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023, capturing the attention and admiration of people worldwide. Charlie’s inspiring attitude, unwavering determination, and refusal to give up have earned him three silver medals and one bronze medal.
Competing in various events on June 23 at Messe Berlin, Charlie participated in the men’s squat, men’s deadlift, men’s bench press, and the men’s all-around competition. His outstanding performance resulted in the following achievements:
- Men’s Squat: Silver Medal – 162.5 kg | 358.25 lbs
- Men’s Bench Press: Silver Medal – 115 kg | 253.5 lbs
- Men’s Deadlift: Bronze Medal – 197.5 kg | 435.5 lbs
- Men’s All-Around: Silver Medal
Expressing his excitement, Charlie stated, “I just can’t wait to come back and show everyone all the medals I have. Follow your dreams. It doesn’t matter if you win or lose. It’s all about having fun.”
Following the competition, Charlie engaged in an emotional interview with ESPN’s Kelsey Riggs, which has been widely regarded as a must-see moment. Charlie compared himself to Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, emphasizing that his dream had come true.
During his time in Berlin, Charlie has formed meaningful connections with fellow athletes, including former Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow. He was interviewed live by ESPN on the program Get Up and also had a prior interview with ESPN’s Kelsey Riggs, which can be watched in its entirety.
Charlie had the opportunity to explore different parts of Germany before the competition. He is set to participate in the Closing Ceremony on Sunday, and his return to Missouri was expected on Tuesday, June 27.
To celebrate Charlie’s achievements, SOMO organized a welcome home parade in Savannah, Missouri, which started at 6 p.m. on June 27. The parade began at the Savannah firehouse, proceed down Main Street, and circled the square twice. Following the parade, Charlie was available for autographs and photographs on the Savannah courthouse lawn.
Photo credit – Special Olympics Missouri / Messe Berlin, Germany
