The gamecock. (Columbia, S.C.) 1908-2006, April 18, 1980, Page Page 4, Image 4

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Spe By Lisa Frucht Gamecock Staff Writer There wasn't just sunshine in the sky Wednesday-there was sunshine in the smiles of participants in the seventh annual Special Olympics held at the WeemsBaskin track From the opening ceremonies, consisting of lighting the traditional Olympic torch and releasing hundreds of balloons, the participants displayed a determination that was truly admirable. Alpha Psi Omega service fraternity sponsored the games, and students from 28 special schools in the Midlands area participated in the event. The Special Olypmics are designed to give the mentally handicapped a change of environment and a cnance 10 gain encouragement through physical activity. Most of the people have not been exposed to the type ot events in the Special Olympics, said Matt McCutcheon. a volunteer with jlj^^ Photos by cial ( Midlands Center. The speeial schools prepare students for events such as the softball throw, relay races, and high jump throughout the year. When students actually compete an event, it is rewarding for both the volunteer and the student. "It gives (hem (the students) the opportunity to feel important,' McCutcheon said. "I telt good, said bolomor Thompson about his second place finish in the softball throw. He saici he had practiced at school and hac been looking forward to the Special Olympics for a long time. 7 feel good both iva feel good' ? Spe jam mm, MMK ?* \.. - '"' s'' ' Russell Par.f* Dave Matthews 31ym Events are divided into 12 age groups, with ribbon awards for first, second and third place. Each i student also receives a ribbon for participation. i Special Olympics competitions i are held nationwide and most events are regulated, said Mark i Yaden, president of APO. "We keep the events within the ability of the participants," he i said. j Volunteers insure that the events I run smoothly and stand on the 1 sidelines to cheer the students on. I "The volunteers have been fantnstir Thf?rp wprp nrobahlv 50 ys, if I lose or win, I'll still Charles McJunkins trial Olympics contestant ,f^r-'XMt:l^-'j'^y? -.''"V; A J- .? i-l_ HraraHm^^Hbfe. dnjn|^^H|M H mmrnmm pii > " ym ' pics more volunteers than last year," Yadensaid. "Most people come to enjoy the day and encourage the people." APO will continue to sponsor the event because of its overwhelming success, Yaden said. "The smiles are heartwarming," said Davadas Lynton, service vice president for APO. Everyone loves seeing the kids have a good time, he added. The enthusiasm and attitude of all the participants was summed up by Charles McJunkins, a student from Midlands Center. 441 feel good both ways, if I lose or win, I'll still feel good," he said. The Special Olympics was a very special event for very special people.