A parade was held through Springfield to welcome Ewing who had won four gold medals at the Orlando Special Olympics earlier this week.

Ewing won four gold medals in powerlifting. He received gold medals in the bench press event, lifting 347 pounds; squat event, lifting 524 pounds; dead lift event, lifting 634 pounds; and in the combined powerlifting competition.

Ewing spoke during the game’s closing ceremony. Along with other Minnesota athletes he helped usher in the 2026 USA Special Olympics, which will be held in the Twin Cities, with the University of Minnesota hosting the games.

Ewing credited his success at the Orlando games with his training. He has been preparing for the competition for five years.

Staff photo by Clay Schult Austin Ewing returned to Springfield with his family Sunday after wining four gold medals at the Special Olympics in Orlando. From left: Frannie Soto-Clark, Austin Ewing, Jovana Sota-Clark and Harmony Clark.

Ewing’s homecoming was celebrated with a tour through the city. He rode in the front of a Springfield Fire Truck, complete with police escort. Sirens could be heard throughout town, honoring Ewing’s achievements.

Staff photo by Clay Schult Welcome home signs were placed off Highway 14 outside of Springfield to welcome the return of hometown hero Austin Ewing, who won four gold medals during the Orlando Special Olympics competition.