Special Olympian swims his way into World Games

RESEDA, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Less than a week before the Special Olympics World Games, Luke Rose can be found practicing in a pool at Cleveland Charter High School in Reseda.

"I like swimming a lot. It's fun and I like the water," Rose said.

The 19-year-old from Northridge is competing in three World Games swimming events on Saturday, including the 50 meter freestyle, 50 meter backstroke and the relay.

He says he's ready.

"I've been practicing since 2007, for the past eight years," Rose said.

Rose trains with Meg Patrick, the head coach from the Tri-Valley Cleveland Swim Team.

"She helps me go faster and helps me become a better swimmer," Rose said.

She's not only Rose's coach, she's also one of his biggest fans.

"I can't wait to be down there to watch him swim at USC. It's going to be a wonderful experience," Patrick said.

In addition to becoming a better athlete, being a member of Team USA has helped Rose become more outgoing.

"Since he found out he's going to the games, he's been so excited. He goes up to people at parties and introduces himself. He sees himself as an ambassador for the World Games," Rose's father Ted Rose said.

All the swimming events will be held at the Uytengsu Aquatics Center at the University of Southern California. They are free and open to the public.

To cheer on Rose and other members of Team USA, view the schedule here: www.la2015.org/schedule.