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As Hailey Robinson took to the track at this week’s Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, she said one thought kept running through her mind: “Don’t slow down.” 

To reach the starting line of that 800-meter race — and a second-place finish — Robinson didn’t just travel from Hibbing to the Twin Cities. It was a journey that started years earlier. 

Robinson’s adopted mother, Melissa Patterson, said the race brought back memories of how far her daughter has come. 

“When I got her, she could only lay on the floor and flap her hands; she had no muscles,” Patterson said. “She didn't walk till she was over two years old, so to see her out there running is like the most amazing thing.” 

Robinson, who’s 19 years old, is one of several thousand athletes taking part in this week’s Special Olympics USA Games, held at venues around the Twin Cities. 

Patterson is Robinson’s cousin and adopted her when she was eight months old. Patterson signed her up for track when she was very young, and she’s stuck with it ever since.  

Robinson has been involved in the Special Olympics since 2022, competing in bocce. swimming, poly hockey and track and field; and participating in the Polar Plunge. However, in this year’s games, she decided to stick with track and field. 

Away from competition, Robinson draws and creates art, including painting, which she said is her “No. 1 passion.” She said her disability empowers her to take on so many activities at once. 

“For some people, some other people tell them that they can't do it because of their disability, but that's not true,” she said. “Even if you have a disability, it does not mean you can't do something, you still have the ability to do it.” 

Robinson said the Special Olympics unites people because there is no judgment, and it allows people with disabilities to show what they can accomplish.  

Patterson said Robinson is no different than everyone else.  

“I cry every time she runs, because she just inspires,” she said.  

Special Olympics USA Games events are being held at the National Sports Center in Blaine, and on the University of Minnesota campus. The games continue through Friday.  

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Ahmed Hassan

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The Special Olympics USA games enters its final day of competition Friday in the Twin Cities. Hibbing track runner Hailey Robinson shared her experience in the games. 

Mother and daughter stand together to pose for photo after track event. 

'Don't slow down': Minnesota athlete shares experience in Special Olympics

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