Simon Keenan Selected for 2026 Special Olympics USA Games!

We are thrilled to share some incredibly exciting news from this year’s Summer Games. Our very own Simon Keenan has been selected to represent Northern California at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis.

As Simon stepped onto the medal stand following his first race, officials from Special Olympics Northern California surprised him with the announcement. He is one of only four swimmers chosen from across the Northern California Special Olympics region. It was a truly unforgettable moment and a well-earned honor.

Simon is a 15-year-old sophomore at Miramonte High School in Orinda and has been a dedicated member of the East Bay Sea Serpents for nearly a decade. He began swimming with our team at age six, spending his first two years learning and training before becoming eligible to compete at age eight. In addition to swimming, Simon also participates in Special Olympics basketball.

Simon is the son of Alicia and David Keenan and is part of a vibrant, close-knit family. He is one of triplets, along with his brother Grayson and sister Lorelei, and has two other siblings, Ania and Rowan. The family is completed by their two dogs, Link and Charlie.

At school, Simon is involved in several activities that reflect his enthusiasm and spirit. He performs in the Miramonte High School musical theater program and competes on the junior varsity wrestling team. He is also a budding food critic and shares thoughtful and entertaining reviews on his Instagram account, @simon_food_reviews, where he highlights a variety of meals and flavors.

Simon’s history of hard work, his heart, and dedication makes him an outstanding athlete to represent not only Special Olympics Northern California, but also the East Bay Sea Serpents as well in Minneapolis!  He reflects the very best of what Special Olympics represents, including determination, courage, and joy.

Simon will be joined in Minneapolis by Coach Brian Wentzel, who has also named to the 2026 USA Games coaching team for swimming.

Please join us in congratulating Simon and the Keenan family on this incredible accomplishment and honor.  We believe that Simon is the very first Sea Serpent ever to be named to USA Games!  You can learn more about the USA Games which happen once every four years by visiting 2026specialolympicsusagames.org.