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Mary Frances Smith (Photography by Gabriel Burgos)

Mary Frances Smith: 2022 Athlete of the Year for Special Olympics Florida

Tampa Bay Confidential

by Kathryn Deen
July 7, 2023
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About Me

I was born in Tampa and raised in Brandon, where I still live. I am 33 and have been participating in Special Olympics for 24 years, including 20 years in tennis and 10 years in bowling and swimming. I’m a Special Olympics Athlete Leader and a Health Messenger.

I also volunteer making sandwiches for the homeless community. I am a top fundraiser for the annual Publix Torch Icon campaign and an advocate for all people with disabilities. I learned American Sign Language so I can communicate with everyone.

Mary Frances Smith

My Local Knowledge

My favorite places to work out are where I lead yoga with my friends – Trident at High 5 Inc. in Brandon, GiGi’s Playhouse in Tampa and the University of Tampa inclusion group.

In preparation for Special Olympics competition, I train with Tennis for Fun groups in Tampa and Brandon.

If I got to create a day out with my family, it would be going to Busch Gardens to see the shows and flamingos and to go on the rides.

I love shopping. My favorite stores are Kendra Scott, Dillard’s, Justice, Victoria’s Secret, Old Navy and Ulta. But most of all, I like Sur La Table for all the cooking and baking goodies.

My favorite place to experience art and culture is the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. I also like the Tampa Bay History Museum.

My Tampa Bay hidden gem is Wright’s Gourmet House for the Hawaiian Princess cake. I go there to celebrate my birthday.

Tags: athletesfemale athleteGiGi’s Playhousekendra scottSpecial OlympicsSpecial Olympics Floridastraz center for the performing artssur la tableTampa Bay History Museumuniversity of tampaWright's Gourmet House
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