Drayton Heights Public School was cheering on four of their student athletes Wednesday May 23 as they attended the Special Olympics held at St. James Catholic High School in Guelph.
Over 50 other surrounding schools were in attendance to take on a day of fun track and field events. While there are shot put, 50 metre and other track events going on, our Drayton Heights athletes participated in adapted events based on gender and age. Events consisted of 40 metre walk/run, bean bag toss, he shoots/she scores hockey, obstacle course and basketball.
As each of the athletes got their wheels and feet in position their peer helpers from school were right there cheering them on along with Education Assistants, parents and other athletes.
Onlookers can not help but notice the glow from each of the athletes face and their determination is not in disguise. While the athletes get ready for the word “GO” you realize who speaks those words. Volunteers. People who take the day off to organise, cheer on, give out fruit and water and give high fives and ribbons when our athletes cross the finish line.
Every participant leaves the event with a smile, confidence, self satisfaction and a ribbon to show off.
Drayton Heights athletes had some 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishes in their events. Parents and staff are very proud of the athletes for their hard work and the peer helpers for being great friends and the best cheer leaders for the four athletes.
There is talk already for what next year’s Special Olympics track day will hold.
