Every athlete has a story, and for Whitney Lackey, a Special Olympics Tennessee athlete and proud member of Team Tennessee, it started with a dream.
“I had a dream that one day I was going to be an Olympian.”
Lackey has been swimming since she was 8 years old. Now, at 28, that dream has led her to one of the biggest stages in Special Olympics.
This June, athletes from across Tennessee traveled to Minnesota to compete at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. After months of training and years of hard work, they proudly represented Tennessee while showing what determination and perseverance can accomplish.
For Lackey, that dedication led to an unforgettable moment. She earned first place in the 25-yard backstroke, a moment that reflected years of dedication in and out of the pool.
When asked about her favorite event, Lackey smiled and answered without hesitation.
“My backstroke.”
Then she proudly added, “I got first.”
Lackey first became involved with Special Olympics after one of her coaches introduced her to the program. Since then, it has become much more than a place to compete.
I just love how it helps me. It makes me feel confident.
Swimming has also made a difference in her everyday life.
“It helps my ability to walk and balance,” she said. “It keeps me going.”
When Lackey reflected on her favorite part of Special Olympics, she talked about the feeling that comes after putting in the work.
“When your hard work pays off.”
While winning first place was an incredible achievement, the friendships she has built have meant just as much to her.
“You make good friends,” Whitney shared. “Even around the country, you get to meet new people.”
That sense of community is what makes Special Olympics so special. It brings people together through sports while creating opportunities for athletes to grow in confidence, challenge themselves, and build lifelong friendships.
Lackey’s journey is about much more than a first-place finish. It is about believing in a dream, putting in the work every day and finding a community that celebrates every accomplishment along the way.
Congratulations, Whitney, on an incredible week at USA Games! Your determination, positivity and joyful spirit continue to inspire all of us. We are proud to have you represent Special Olympics Tennessee.
To see Lackey's official results from the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games, click here.