06/24/2026
Congratulations Ryan! So proud of you!
LAWRENCEVILLE'S RYAN FARRAR EARNS FOUR MEDALS AT SPECIAL OLYMPICS USA GAMES
Lawrenceville athlete Ryan Farrar achieved an impressive milestone on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, earning four medals during powerlifting competition while representing Team Illinois (Special Olympics Illinois) on the national stage.
Competing against some of the top Special Olympics athletes from across the country, Farrar brought home medals in all four of his events.
According to official results from the USA Games, Farrar earned:
• Bronze Medal – Squat
• Silver Medal – Deadlift
• Bronze Medal – Bench Press
• Bronze Medal – Combination (Bench Press, Deadlift, and Squat)
In addition to his medal-winning performance, Farrar recorded personal bests during competition.
A DREAM YEARS IN THE MAKING
Farrar said competing at the USA Games was the fulfillment of a goal he has pursued for nearly a decade.
"I've done powerlifting for nine years. Had this dream and worked my butt off to get here [at USA Games]. And I finally got the opportunity. It means the world," Farrar said.
The Special Olympics USA Games are held every four years and feature athletes from across the nation competing in a variety of sports.
PERSONAL RECORDS ON THE NATIONAL STAGE
Farrar said his focus during competition was simple.
"[All I think about is] I have to lift those weights," he said.
His determination paid off with two personal records during the competition.
"I had two personal records on bench and deadlift. 292 pounds on deadlift!" Farrar said.
COMMUNITY PRIDE
Farrar's accomplishments bring national recognition not only to Team Illinois, but also to Lawrenceville and Lawrence County.
Earlier this month, Farrar was selected as one of 57 athletes and Unified partners chosen to represent Illinois at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
His four-medal performance stands as a testament to years of dedication, training, and perseverance.
Lawrence County, IL News congratulates Ryan Farrar on his outstanding performance and for representing Lawrence County with pride on the national stage.
Article sponsored by: The Local Lens - Lawrenceville Unfiltered - Podcast