Spring-Ford hosted the Montgomery County Special Olympics Track and Field Competition for the second time May 1 after the success of last year’s event.
This year’s event saw over 400 student volunteers who helped manage every aspect of the day, from helping the athletes during their events to running the snack stand. The event’s organizers, Mollie Smith-Wood and Gina High, attributed the success of the event to the student volunteers.
“Student volunteers are the foundation of Spring-Ford’s Special Olympics; without them we could not host the event for the nine participating schools,” Smith-Wood said. “Students execute the entire day: they set up and tear down each event, facilitate the heats…. They are the timers, the recorders, they escort athletes to each of their heats, give out ribbons, are the cheerleaders, and even run with the athletes. We could not do it without them!”
And the students were more than happy to help.
“It is a truly great experience and joy to be a part of,” stated Spring-Ford sophomore volunteer Mike Diaz
The day started at 9:30 a.m., with opening ceremonies where the athletes from each school entered with their respective mascots. The entrance was followed by a mascot race, which Rowdy Ram won, and then the students went off to their events.
“This is a day of excitement and unforgettable moments,” Assistant Superintendent Tina Giambattista said in her opening remarks. “Today represents a culmination of months of hard work and perseverance. I am proud to stand beside you as we celebrate the courage and determination that has brought us here today.”
The participating athletes each participated in three of the activities offered. The activities included a 200-meter run, various wheelchair races, a 25-and 50-meter dash, a softball throw and a standing long jump.
According to the Special Olympics Pennsylvania website, “The mission of Special Olympics PA is to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.”
Spring-Ford will host the event next spring for a third consecutive year.
