Special Olympics organizers are hoping Iowa’s newest corn maze will set the record for the world’s largest temporary corn maze.

The 18.5-acre maze, designed in the shape of the logo of the 2006 Special Olympics USA National Games and located at 2044 Highway 14 in Knoxville, opened last weekend.

Those who helped plan, design and build the maze are hoping the spectacle will generate interest in next summer’s first National Special Olympics, which will be held in Ames the first week of July.

Dan Dennison, co-owner of Dan-D Farms with his wife Jana, said his business was asked by Special Olympics to build the maz. He said he happily agreed because he feels the organization is a good cause. A portion of the proceeds from the corn maze will go to the Special Olympics.

The maze was completed in three days by roughly five people, Dennison said.

“It may be the best, cheapest, most wholesome family fun in America,” he said.

Dennison said there will be much more to do than just tour the maze.

There will also be a small petting zoo of miniature donkeys, a baby calf and goats, a seven-car train and a 16- to 18-foot-long slide for children. Bonfires and food will also be available.

The maze is open Saturdays and Sundays from now through October, but Dennison said they could make special arrangements for groups to come in on weeknights if they call ahead for reservations.

Dennison said the maze was planned for Knoxville instead of Ames, primarily to show this is not just an ISU event but a statewide effort.

Special Olympics athletes from all around the country will be traveling to Ames to compete on the Iowa State campus. The opening ceremonies will be held at Jack Trice Stadium.

Ames Mayor Ted Tedesco said he expects ESPN to broadcast at least portions of the events. He also said he expects at least 5,000 athletes to attend, along with their support groups.

Tedesco said it has been roughly two years since the planning process began.

“It’s just a great project,” he said.

He said he especially enjoyed the event because of the athletes.

“They’re so appreciative,” Tedesco said. “I call them people with hidden talents. Through this competition you see those come out.”

Ames has been the home to the Iowa Special Olympics for several years, and with the strong volunteer base, great Iowa State facilities and community support, Ames seemed only natural to host the first national Special Olympics, Tedesco said.

He added the first-year winners at the national level will be able to advance to the World Special Olympic Games.