Habersham County 2018 Special Olympics [PHOTO GALLERY]

Habersham Central High students cheer on the Special Olympians from the stands at Raider Stadium in Mt. Airy on Friday morning, April 13, 2018.

Habersham Central High students bring their full support and cheer on their fellow in the stands of John Larry Black Field Friday morning, April 13.

The announcers commence the games and welcome the Olympians. There are several games that will take place today, including: 100 meter dash, wheelchair race, and cycling.

The Olympians march around the track in the Parade of Athletes as the day commences. Athletes hail from 8 schools, and march proudly as the Habersham Central Band of Blue plays the Special Olympic theme.

Parade of Athletes

Parade of Athletes

Habersham Central JR ROTC members participate in the parade.

Habersham’s Ninth Grade Academy Principal, Dr. Connie Franklin, begins the momentous day with a speech of hope and encouragement.

Habersham Central High student, Benjamin Gallagher performs The Pledge of Allegiance.

Hazel Grove Elementary student, Ella Chambers stands proudly as the Pledge of Allegiance is recited.

Emily Zaragoza and her buddy, Jaqueline Ramirez, recite the Pledge of Allegiance in sign language; patriotism understands no limitations here at Special Olympics.

“Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt…” The Special Olympic Oath recitation.

Jeremiah King (Habersham Central High) bravely takes the microphone and sings The National Anthem with boldness.

Prom King, Alek Velazquez and Prom Queen, Blake Ivie, take a moment of silence during the National Anthem.

Superintendent Matthew Cooper orates a rousing speech to empower the athletes and the audience.

Rosie Fernandez brings forth the Olympic Torch to the Stadium.

D. McNally, of the Habersham Fire Department, lights the Olympic Torch.

Sara Kirschner takes the Olympic Torch, officially commencing the Special Olympic Games.

Sara Kirschner and the Olympic Torch

Former educator Becky G. Portwood captures the momentous occasions with her camera. “I’ve taught numerous special needs kids in my 28 years in education; they teach us the true meaning of grace.”

Daniel G. Purcell, student at Habersham Central High and Now Habersham photographer, captures powerful images of the athletes and their victories.

Ella Chambers, (Hazel Grove Elementary) enjoys the day as evidenced by her smile; she’s definitely a champion!

Contestants of the Wheelchair compete to cross the finish line

Brooklyn comes in first place in the wheelchair race!

Brooklyn’s winning smile!

Olympians competing in the tug-of-war challenge

Spiderman takes the day to show his support for Special Olympics. He took many photographs with the athletes, including Benjamin Gallagher.

Spiderman walks across the field with fellow athlete, hand in hand. He loves the Special Olympics!

Rosie Fernandez (Athlete) and Nevaja Brown (Buddy) smile for the camera on this beautiful Friday morning at Special Olympics.

Buddies and Athlete, Hannah Beauchamp smile for the camera; Special Olympics has been a success!

Sydney Ivie (NGTC Photography Student) and her sister, Blake Ivie (Habersham Central High)

Brooklyn, winner of the wheelchair race, enjoys playing on the field with her buddies.

Athletes gather on the field to receive awards and ribbons! It’s an exciting time for everybody!

The first place badges are about to given out!

Fellow athlete is proud of her ribbons and proceeds to show them off to her friend

Yulisa Martinez has been the most faithful cheerleader of the entire day; her energy and excitement radiate with every motion!

Yulisa Martinez and her friends are in celebration as the day draws to a close. Special Olympics has been a great day of fun and inspiration.

“Champions Together” is the theme of Special Olympics; this design was rendered by Justin Cannon, first place winner of the Artwork Design.

Habersham County 2018 Special Olympics [PHOTO GALLERY]

46th Annual Habersham County Special Olympics

Raider Stadium • Mt. Airy, GA

April 13, 2018

photos by Eli J. McMahon

46th Annual Habersham County Special Olympics

Raider Stadium • Mt. Airy, GA

April 13, 2018

photos by Eli J. McMahon

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