Finding His Stride: Tim McDonough’s Journey to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games

When Tim McDonough walks into a track meet, he doesn't see just lanes and stands. He sees an arena worthy of a warrior.

"It fills me with joy and lots of energy to go all-out," he said. "It reminds me of a gladiator stadium."

That mindset will follow Tim to the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, where he’ll represent Illinois in the track and field pentathlon.

One of the sport's most demanding competitions, the pentathlon challenges athletes across five events—the 100-meter run, 800-meter run, long jump, high jump, and shot put.

For Tim, the challenge is about pushing past his own limits and discovering what he's able to achieve.

Finding His Way to the Track

Tim still remembers his first competition. It brought a mix of excitement and nerves that many athletes know all too well.

“Every athlete gets nervous or a little scared,” he said. “But then after the event is over, you want to come back for the next event—again and again!”

He’s been involved in sports since he was very young and, along the way, he’s built lasting connections that extend beyond the track.

“At Norwood Park, I’ve found a new community with new friends, coaches—people who feel like family,” he said.

Track and field requires a unique balance of individual determination and team support, something Tim has come to appreciate.

“Sometimes I push myself too hard,” he said. “I think a lot of athletes can relate because you want to be really competitive. But you also have to remember that you have a whole team behind you.”

Ready for the Arena

As Tim prepares for the USA Games, his goals remain refreshingly straightforward: have fun, compete at his best, and trade pins to make new friends.

Pin trading is one of the Games’ most popular traditions. Athletes wear pins representing their home states on their lanyards and trade them with competitors from across the country.

“I feel very proud to be a part of this team representing the state of Illinois,” Tim said.

Tim’s training routine includes the usual weightlifting and jogging, but he knows that preparation goes beyond the physical.

To manage stress and stay mentally sharp, he turns to hobbies like reading and painting.

“I follow a schedule to keep myself healthy,” Tim said. “But it doesn’t matter what body you’re in—it helps your mind too.”

He believes athletes should approach their sports as students as well. Using football as an example, Tim recommends watching game film and learning from the athletes you admire.

And when the conversation turns to his favorite team, he's quick to add a "Go Bears!”

Tim’s advice for athletes trying a new sport is equally practical.

“Learn new tactics, develop new skills, or improve your physique,” he said. “And when it starts to feel too easy, find a new challenge.”

As he gets ready to represent Illinois on the national stage, Tim is proud of the opportunity to compete alongside athletes from across the country. He also hopes his journey encourages others to pursue their own goals.

"Maybe in four years, it could be you!"

FanDuel is proud to sponsor the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games and share the stories of athletes like Tim.