Ninety-six Special Olympians took to the field at Raider Stadium in Mt. Airy on Friday for the 44th Annual Habersham County Special Olympics. Eighty-nine of them competed in a dozen track and field events. Those too young to compete – you must be at least 8 years old to qualify for athletic competition – spent the day cheering on the others and learning the ropes.
This year’s theme was “Dream. Inspire. Achieve. Be Brave.”
During the opening ceremony, Olympians, volunteers, teachers and school administrators paraded around the newly-turfed John Larry Black Field amidst a rush of fanfare and excitement. Hundreds of people in the stands looked on and listened as Habersham Central High School Olympians Taylor King, Rosie Fernandez and Matthew Chitwood led their fellow athletes in the iconic Special Olympic Oath.
“Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
North Habersham Middle School student Gavin Moore was recognized for his winning design of this year’s Spring Games t-shirt. After Moore received a framed copy of his original artwork, Olympic torch runners Paul Hendrick, Maria Jiminez and Chris Dill made their way around the track and lit the flame to officially kick off the games.
It was a moment the athletes had looked forward to all year long. Habersham Special Olympics Coordinator Jenny Martin says, “I have numerous teachers who tell me they have to do countdowns on the calendars in the classrooms as the students ask everyday when special Olympics are.”
From all appearances, it was worth the wait.
The day was full of fun and inspiration with competition in a variety of events including the 100 meter dash, the 400 meter relay, wheelchair race, standing long jump, softball throw and bocce. Martin thanked those in attendance for “coming out to support these talented athletes as they showcase their individual strengths and talents.” She said the students trained hard all year to prepare for the games and she applauded their effort and spirit. “These exceptional students truly exemplify this year’s theme.”
Martin also extended a “huge thanks” to the volunteers and community sponsors who keep the non-profit running. “We could not have a successful event without the hours of time and generous donations they provide to our organization,” she says.
It’s that giving spirit that extended onto the field Friday and fueled the hopes and dreams of Habersham’s Special Olympians. Their tenacity, teamwork, achievements and “give it your best” attitudes were on full display throughout the day-long event. So were their smiles. Here’s a look back at those smiles in images captured by Now Habersham photographer Daniel Purcell.
To volunteer or learn more about Special Olympics, contact Jenny Martin at 706-754-2110 ext. 127 or email her at [email protected].
