PHOTOS BY AMANDA CALDWELL
STORY BY BRANDY TEMPLETON
A total of 431 athletes participated in the 2023 Iredell County Special Olympics Spring Games at Statesville High School on Wednesday and Thursday.
Ages eight through senior adults competed in the long jump, turbo javelin, running and walking, softball throw, standing long jump, races, tennis ball throw, and ball kick.
The first day was for young athletes ages 2-11, while the second day provided an opportunity for those ages 12 and up to compete.
“Special Olympics is the biggest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities, allowing them to be physically active year round. It gives them training with social inclusion and gives them an outlet to remain healthy physically and mentally,” local coordinator Bobbi Williams said.
Volunteers from Food Lion, Denso, Knights of Columbus, Walmart, ASEC, Statesville Recreation and Parks Department, and Statesville Pediatric Dentistry were on hand Thursday to help out.
“This is our first time back since Covid. It’s great getting re-established and getting all the groups involved,” Williams said.
Photo Gallery
I was there with my granddaughter. Oh what a blessing that I received. All the smiles made me smile. Thank you to all the sponsors and volunteers.