Tyler Gardner

Athlete of the Month

Tyler Gardner has been a dedicated athlete with Special Olympics Colorado for an incredible 30 years. Her journey began when she attended a TRE disability meeting and was introduced to the Southeast Region and was excited to get involved.

Tyler competes in both basketball and powerlifting, with a true passion for powerlifting. She loves pushing herself to improve her personal records, embracing the discipline and determination required to grow in her sport. “It shows me there’s no limits that hold me back,” Tyler says. That mindset has led to some incredible achievements. Most memorably, Tyler deadlifted 335 lbs, a record at State Summer Games last month.

Throughout the years, Tyler has competed with multiple teams, currently the Pikes Peak Wolves, and thrives on the sense of community Special Olympics Colorado provides. “I get to be involved with other people that come from the same background as me. We motivate one another to keep going and not quit when it comes to getting the work done.”

Outside of sports, Tyler is a passionate musician and a proud self-taught multi-instrumentalist. She plays 12 instruments, including guitar, banjo, ukulele, keyboard, and drums. She also loves going to church and staying connected to her faith and music.

Congratulations, Tyler, on being recognized as the July Athlete of the Month!

Smile Generation

Community Partner of the Month

Smile Generation, through its partnership with Pacific Dental Services and PDS Foundation, is dedicated to breaking down barriers in oral healthcare—especially for individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Smile Generation participates in Healthy Athlete Special Smiles events, helping deliver free oral health screenings and education at sports competitions—often the first dental visit for many athletes. This year, Smile Generation is also the returning Title Sponsor at Plane Pull, as well as an event sponsor at State Summer Classic and Polar Plunge.

Together, Smile Generation and Special Olympics Colorado are raising awareness, improving health outcomes, and empowering athletes to pursue their fullest potential. We are honored to recognize them as our Community Partner of the Month.