The city of La Mirada has been chosen as a Host Town for the 2015 Special Olympics World Games coming to Los Angeles in 2015. La Mirada was selected as one of 100 Host Towns and will partner with Biola University to host approximately 100 athletes from July 21 to 24, 2015.

The 2015 Special Olympics World Games will be among the largest events in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games. The Opening Ceremony, to be held July 25, 2015, in the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, site of the 1932 and 1984 Olympic Games, is expected to attract 80,000 spectators.  Honorary chairs of the Games are President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.

Special Olympics unites children and adult athletes with intellectual disabilities from around the world. The athletes demonstrate unparalleled spirit, enthusiasm, teamwork and displays of courage and skill. The games will feature 25 Olympic-style sports and the Special Olympics World Games Torch Relay.

La Mirada Mayor Larry Mowles said, “We look forward to meeting all of these fine young people and showing our city off to their family and friends.”  

Biola University will house the athletes in its residence halls and provide food while the city will provide transportation and community events for the athletes.

"We are happy to serve the community through our partnership with the city of La Mirada in hosting 100 athletes for the 2015 Special Olympics," said Biola University President Barry H. Corey. "This is a unique opportunity and we are honored to be a part of it."

“The host-town program provides an opportunity for the athletes to get acclimated to the country,” said Steve Vanderpool, vice president of communications for the Special Olympic World Games. “One reason for the selection of La Mirada was the presence of Biola. A community that has a university or college with housing is always helpful.”

“Cities which have unique types of entertainment also are sought. Splash! La Mirada Regional Aquatics Center and the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts are highly regarded venues in the community.”