Karl Dickersbach, a runner from Fairless Hills, has been chosen to represent Pennsylvania at the 2026 Special Olympics USA games in Minnesota, reports Gray Hall for 6abc.
Dickersbach already participated in the Special Olympics Pennsylvania Winter Games this year, where his main event is snowshoeing.
He first did the Special Olympics in elementary school.
“With his height and his legs they let him run a little bit, and immediately that was his slot,” said his father, Erik.
His collection of medals quickly grew, most of them gold.
Tom Delaney, one of his coaches, praises Dickersbach for being great at the pentathlon, the high jump, and for being an overall natural athlete.
Dickersbach has even participated in the Rocky Run, the Marine Corps 10-K, and Broad Street Runs, among others.
But his secret to success is not just in his talent.
“He’s probably one of the hardest workers on our team,” said another coach, Lisa Rigefsky.
Delaney added that he is very competitive with the other athletes.
However, he is also concerned about his teammates and always wants to see them do their best.
His coaches are convinced he will not disappoint at next year’s games.
Rigefsky firmly believes that Dickersbach will bring home the gold.
Read more about Karl Dickersbach and his athletic background prior to the Special Olympics in 6abc.
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