Special Olympics unites the community

The torch was lit, the band played, and one dozen colorful balloons were released into the beautiful Georgia sky as more than 90 athletes squared off for the Special Olympics on Wednesday morning at the Baldwin High School track.

“This is a wonderful event,” said Administrative Assistant at Central State Hospital Linda Hewette. “The volunteers and the kids get a lot out of it. It is a great way for teenagers and local organizations to get involved in the community.”

The event began at 10 a.m. with opening ceremonies. The Baldwin High School Marching Band started it off with a short pep song to get the crowd and the athletes energized, and then they proceeded into the national anthem. Georgia Military College continued the ceremonies with an exhibition and then the ceremonies were concluded with a performance by the Baldwin Brigade, the high school dance team, and a torch run.

“The event this year was fantastic,” New said. “We couldn’t ask for a better community. Each year there are more volunteers. It is nice to have a community that is so involved and encouraging.”

After the opening ceremonies the event dove straight into the competitions. Athletes competed in numerous events, including: 50 and 100 meter dash, softball throw, standing long jump, and several assisted and unassisted wheel chair competitions. Winners advanced to the state, national and international level.

The event was run by volunteers and funded by donations. Members from all over the community came out to help for the games.

“The Special Olympics is a good opportunity for us to help in the community,” said Grand Knight of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church Knights of Columbus Louis Kaduk. “It is a very rewarding experience; It makes you feel grateful for what you have.”

Today, the Special Olympics pave the way for aiding those with disabilities. Its boundaries expand worldwide as it has athletes in China, India, Afghanistan and Rwanda.

The Special Olympics World Games will be held in China in 2007.

“The smiles you see on the athletes’ faces is what makes the whole experience worth it,” New said. “They compete just as hard as any other athletes. It brings you tremendous joy to see them succeed.”

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Apr 14 2006. Filed under Sports. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry