Special Olympics

[minkydog]

If you have never attended a Special Olympics Games, you are really missing out. Today was the day. We gathered with about 200 athletes. Their disabilities spanned the spectrum, from kids who were fairly minorly impaired to kids in motorized wheelchairs. I must admit I had tears in my eyes as I walked with Christian around the stadium with his team. When the torch bearers entered the track it just took my breath away--young adults, some limping with CP, some running strong, and some being wheeled by volunteers c, all accompanied by local Marines running encouragement as they made teir way around the track. The local high school NROTC presented the flag while one special athlete stood up and sang the National Anthem, acappella. And when the announcer said "Let the games began" they Olympic anthem turned up loud and the athletes surged the field, shouting and giving high fives. Just like athletes around the world.

A more enthusiastic group you have never seen. Not a frown, not an argument. At poolside as their fellows swam the other athletes clapped and cheered, awaiting their turns. Most of these kids and young adults are not graceful. Indeed, they talk to loud, they clap when nobody else is clapping, some of them drool, some shriek and hoot unintelligbly. Most of them dive into the pool in a decidedly frog-like way, arms and legs outstretched awaiting the big belly-flop (and big splash!) they are going for. They swim with all their heart, as fast and as well as they can. And they line up patiently for their ribbons when they finish. Christian came in first place in both his events.

The Special Olympics motto is "Let me win, but if I cannot win let me be brave in the attempt." Indeed.

 

[zachnsamsmommy]

It is awesome going to see the Special Olympics

I haven't been in ages...I need to go again. When I was in middle school, our Girl Scout Troop was very involved with the Special Olympics...we got to put the medals on the necks of the winners. It was always so touching, and very appreciated.

You mentioned Christian's team...was he competing in swimming?

 

[laurie31]

Congratulations to Christian!

And congratulations to all who participated!

 

[happygirl]

I used to volunteer with special olympics and coach the basketball team. It's a great experience. I strongly encourage everyone to get involved in special olympics it such special gift.

 

[clori]

I used to volunteer for the Special Olympics thru my older sister's job. Right now I'm trying to get info to see if I can bring my dd who will be 10 and the two of us can volunteer to cheer athletes on at events at the upcoming summer games. I agree it is so wonderfully to see watch people participate in the special olympics for the sheer joy.

 

[daughtersrus]

My older DD's work for the special rec through our local park district. They LOVE! DD#2 coaches a junior basketball team, gymnastics and swim team. Two weeks ago, she was at ISU for the state BB tournament. Her team took SILVER in their division! She was very proud of them. One of the members from our adult team was chosen to sing the nation anthem at the state tournament. Not a dry eye in the group!

Sadly, none of the kids made it past regionals in swimming or gymnastics but they still had a great attitude!

 

[Mom-to-2-Princesses]

I was fortunate to be a part of the International Special Olympics in 1987 when they were held at the University of Notre Dame. My best friend's sister was Downs Syndrome and her father was one of the organizers. I carried the country name in for the United Kingdom in the Opening Ceremonies and sat with them on the field. Well, after the opening ceremonies I was hooked and attended events every day for the United Kingdom and became their biggest cheerleader!

Minkydog, you brought back all those wonderful memories and were so eloquent in your vocabulary. I'm so happy your son won but more important that he had a great time doing it!

The love at those events is so overwhelming and heartwarming.

 

[minkydog]

It is awesome going to see the Special Olympics


You mentioned Christian's team...was he competing in swimming?

Yes, this is his third year competing in swimming. These were our county Special Olympics games. They'll go to State May 23. Christian swims in Level-A, the lowest functioning category. These kids all wear flotation devices(the water is 6ft deep.) Christian can actually pull himself through the water and stay afloat for a bit, but not for 25 meters. Still, he kicks his feet and moves his arms in a sorta dog paddly way until he reaches the other side. He did have to stop once and gnaw on the lane separators. But then he turned back to swimming and made it to the finish first.

 

[Jennasis]

You are speaking my language now!

I am the head coach for our counties SO equestrian team. We actually have the largest team in the country and are one of only a handful of teams who practice year round (rather than the minimum 10 hours required to qualify for state games). My athletes and I attend the state competition each year and we also host a regional competition. I was honored to have been chosen in 2007 to coach the US Special Olympic equestrian team at world games in Shanghai, and have submitted my candidacy for the 2011 games in Athens (as a coach again...fingers crossed!). My God...what an amazng experience! World Games was truly one of those life-changing events. I met some of the most amazing people and saw things that would take your breath away. Just amazing!

There is no greater joy to me than watching my athletes compete. When I see the joy and determination...the comraderie, the sportsmanship. It moves me to tears! These guys bust their butts and love every second of what they do. It is an honor to work with them and they have taught ME so much about patience, tolerance, determination and so much more. I can't imagine my life without the Special Olympics in it.

The organization is ALWAYS in need of volunteers and coaches. If anyone has even a little interest in contributing to the Special Olympics, contact your local office and go for it!

OP...congrats to Christian! You must be so proud of him. Just reading about your experience with SO fills me with a warm fuzzy I can't even explain in words.