Special Olympics Recap

This year the Special Olympics was held on Oct. 25 at Milton Frank Stadium. Athletes from the age of 8 to 65 partook in the meter walk, dashes and the shot put.

The whole event was organized and run by AEgis Technologies. Men and women were stationed at assorted stations checking people in, making and dispersing lunches, announcing races and scores and presenting ribbons.

“I work for the company that sponsors the event,” information esurance specialist Machera Dickison said. “It’s one of the things we do as a company to help the community.”

Club members from various schools in the area volunteered to escort athletes, help set up functions and even worked at most of the tents. There were photo booths, dance parties, hula hoop contests, face painting and t-shirt sales. While the athletes were not competing, they relaxed and had fun by participating in free activities set up by the organizations.

“I loved watching kids doing something they love, having fun and interacting with others,” Jr. Civitan member Whitney Wulff said. “Cheering them on with my friends was my favorite part.”

Athletes from all over the state come to participate in this one event. When they arrive off the bus they are automatically accompanied by two volunteer escorts. The escorts then lead the athletes to and from the field and tents where they partake in races and various activities. They get a whole day to themselves-while enjoying the company of friends-participating in competitions and just having fun.

“I enjoyed being there,” Dickson said. “My favorite part was getting to watch all the kids smile when they come across the finish line.”