Local Special Olympics athletes featured in commercial during Paris Olympics
Meet the Capital Region stars featured in Special Olympics commercials during the 2024 Olympic Games.
Special Olympians, Tommy Mooney and Cayleigh Moorhead have not only competed, but they’ve also each made the podium an impressive number of times!
“I won three gold and two bronze,” Moorhead said.
“I have two gold,” Mooney said.
Mooney is a powerlifter and Moorhead is a gymnast. The two have become somewhat of local celebrities because of the Sunmark Credit Union commercials.
“I’m happy to be picked,” Moorhead said. “I am proud of myself.” 4:17
“I am so proud of myself. I was so excited,” Mooney said. “It feels good to be a star, this is my moneymaker.”
Moorhead has been a gymnast for six years. She said it’s all thanks to her parents for seeing her talent. At 15 years old, Moorhead’s drive and passion have made her a gold-medal-winning Special Olympian.
“I used to cheer, and my parents thought the gymnastics world would help…I loved it so much I stayed.”
Mooney most recently competed in the USA Games at Walt Disney World in Orlando. He won gold after deadlifting 292 pounds!
Every day he gets stronger training under his coach, Chris Hughes; who doubles as his inspiration.
“I want to be strong and get healthy. I want to look like Coach Chris,” he said.
Of course, Mooney and Moorhead have been watching the Olympics in Paris each night. Both say Simone Biles is their favorite athlete because she is inspiring.
“She practices on the floor routine, and she likes the bars,” Moorhead said.
“She’s an amazing athlete. She doesn’t give up, just like me,” Mooney said.
They’ll keep striving for more gold.