As concerns continue to escalate over the potential coronavirus threat, Northeast Georgians are feeling the impact. From self-quarantines and school directives on travel to nursing homes prohibiting outside visitors and public events being canceled, the virus is altering people’s routines.
Now the Habersham County Special Olympics has canceled its Spring Games.
Local coordinator for the Games, Jenny McNally, says the state organizing body for Special Olympics issued a mandate on March 10 suspending all state, area, and local games through March 31. On that date, Special Olympics of Georgia will reassess the situation and give further guidance.
“Our games are currently scheduled for April 3rd and there is no way we could wait until March 31st to make a decision as to if we could proceed,” McNally says explaining why the decision was made to cancel. “I really hate that it has come to this but in the best interest of our students, many of whom are medically fragile, we must cancel this year’s event.”
The cancellation undoubtedly will disappoint the many athletes who anticipate and participate in the Games. It’s a springtime rite of passage and event students prepare for year-round.
Last year 111 athletes competed in the local Games held at Habersham Central High School in Mt. Airy.
Next year Habersham Special Olympics will celebrate its 50th year. McNally says, “We look forward to this celebration and will have many additions to the annual games in celebration of this milestone.”
