THE APEX TIMES
Justin Hale helps lead Team Kentucky to 38 medals at Special Olympics USA Games
In an interview with WAVE News Midday, swimmer Justin Hale said he still feels nerves before races, while relying on training as Team Kentucky wrapped up the Special Olympics USA Games with 38 medals.
Team Kentucky posted a strong showing at the Special Olympics USA Games, with swimmer Justin Hale highlighted by WAVE News as a key performer in the delegation’s effort in the competition.
According to WAVE’s report, Hale discussed how he manages race-day pressure, telling WAVE News Midday that he still gets nervous before races. He said the approach he uses is to focus on performing at his best and to trust the training he has completed leading up to competition.
WAVE reported that Team Kentucky earned 38 medals overall at the USA Games, underscoring the breadth of results across the state’s athletes. Hale’s individual success served as a focal point for viewers and for Kentucky supporters following the event.
The report framed the medals as a team accomplishment, reflecting the structure of Special Olympics competitions where athletes participate across events and classifications. It also placed Hale’s perspective in the context of how athletes prepare for high-stakes moments, even when they have practiced extensively.
Hale’s comments to WAVE pointed to a common theme in sports at every level, that nerves can be part of preparation. In his case, he emphasized confidence in training rather than trying to eliminate anxiety, aligning with how many athletes describe their routines before starting.
While the WAVE report centered on Hale and the Team Kentucky results, the USA Games also function as a national gathering for athletes and families connected to local programs. For Kentucky communities, medal totals can translate into increased recognition for Special Olympics programs and for the coaches, families, and volunteers who support athletes throughout the year.
As Team Kentucky continues returning to local schedules after the USA Games, athletes and organizers typically turn to recovery and training for the next cycle of state and regional competitions. The WAVE report does not outline specific next events for Hale, but it adds to the documentation of Kentucky’s performance at the national level as the delegation’s results are recognized.
Why It Matters
- The Special Olympics USA Games are a national stage where Kentucky athletes represent local programs and communities.
- Public discussion of athlete preparation, including race-day nerves and reliance on training, can help families and supporters understand how athletes build confidence.
- Team Kentucky’s 38-medal total provides a measurable outcome that local programs can use for recognition and continued community engagement.
- Coverage of individual athletes like Hale can also draw attention to coaching and volunteer support that sustains year-round participation.
Key Facts
- Swimmer Justin Hale was highlighted by WAVE News as a leader for Team Kentucky at the Special Olympics USA Games.
- In a WAVE News Midday interview, Hale said he still gets nervous before races, and he focuses on giving his best while trusting training.
- WAVE reported that Team Kentucky earned 38 medals at the USA Games.
- The story presents Hale’s race approach as centered on preparation and performance rather than eliminating pre-race nerves.