Kellen and Devin showing off their gold medals at Seaview Golf Club in New Jersey
Special Olympics Minnesota Unified pair, Kellen and Devin Kaasa, competed in the 2023 Special Olympics North America (SONA) Golf Championship at Seaview Golf Club in Galloway, New Jersey. The event was held October 2-5, 2023.
Nearly 200 athletes and Unified partners representing 19 Special Olympics Programs from across the United States and Canada competed in the 2023 SONA Golf Championship.
Kellen Kaasa has been a Special Olympics Minnesota athlete since 2001, competing in golf, swimming, bowling, track and field, bocce, basketball and flag football. Kellen’s brother, Devin, has been by his side as a Unified partner for years, and they were thrilled to learn they would have a place in the October tournament.
“Kellen was excited when he learned he was selected for the competition,” says Dawn Kaasa, Kellen and Devin’s mother. “He loves competing with Devin and was really looking forward to seeing friends from across the country that he’s met through Special Olympics over the years.”
Kellen and Devin shined at the tournament, walking away with the gold in Division 2. On top of their first-place win, they had the third overall low score in the tournament.
View photos from the 2023 SONA Golf Championship
Waggle® Golf sponsored SOMN’s team throughout the 2023 Golf Championship. The team was decked out with Waggle® gear, and they were one of the most fashionable duos on the course.
“Everyone came up to them and said hands-down they were the best-dressed team,” says Dawn. “The loon shirts were especially loved by other athletes and Unified partners. Thanks so much to Caroline and the whole Waggle® staff for supporting Special Olympics Minnesota!”
