Special Olympics Summer Games celebrates 40 years
Ashley Stockamp
Stillwater NewsPress
More than 4,000 athletes from across Oklahoma will convene May 13 to begin the celebration of the 40th annual Special Olympics Oklahoma summer games.
May 13-15 athletes will be in Stillwater competing in aquatics, athletics, bocce, bowling, golf, horseshoes, powerlifting, unified 3-on-3 basketball and unified softball. Stars of the Future and motor activities are also offered.
Opening ceremonies will begin May 13 at 7:30 p.m. The 2009 opening ceremonies theme is “HOMECOMING ... celebrating the 40th Anniversary of our 1st Homecoming.”
The law enforcement torch run will kick off the celebration with a parade of athletes, the carrying of the torch and rappelling into Gallagher Iba Arena. The parade will be led by the Charles Page High School Jazz Band, and a team of special needs cheerleaders will perform for the audience.
“It’s going to be like a big pep rally for opening ceremonies,” said Donna Ham, public relations director for Special Olympics Oklahoma.
The 2009 athlete of the year recognition and the Special Olympics Oath will be lead by Barry Switzer , Special Olympics head coach. Switzer has announced this award during opening ceremonies every year since 1973.
This year volunteers are especially needed for breakfast and dinner in the dorms, softball throw, track staging and openings ceremonies. Volunteers are welcome to show up the day of the event and cheer for the teams.
“If people just want to show up at the games they are more than welcome,” Ham said. “We can always use fans in the stands at softball, powerlifting and 3-on-3 basketball.”
For more information on the events and becoming a volunteer call 918-481-1234 or visit www.sook.org.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
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