Special Olympics
Students from schools throughout Hillsborough County gathered to compete in track and field events at Gaither High School in the annual Special Olympics on Feb. 14. At Plant, Coach Mahon’s P.E. class lined up and cheered for the student athletes as they boarded the bus. The morning show recorded as the kids excitedly fidgeted in their seats, ready to face the competition. With Himes blocked off, Officer Mark Holloway granted a blue light police escort for the packed yellow school bus.
The track and field events were consistently conquered by the Plant athletes. Bradley Williams, Calla Reardin, Nicholas Garnett, Marvens Franceour, Kevin Lewers, Cameron Brown, Daniel Justiniano, and Ryan Howerton achieved first place in one or more of their events. Julie Russel, Terry Smith, Rosalia Lewers, Maggie Mahon, Alex Stevens, Jaci Jagodzinski, Catoryaa Green, and Giancarlo Romero finished second or third. Impressively, t Marvens Franceour ran the 100 Meter Dash in 13.58 seconds.
“I didn’t forfeit!” Jordan Hurst said after finishing his race. In the days leading up to the games, a nervous Hurst constantly shared that the wanted to forfeit. “It was really inspiring to see him not give up. He did so good I had to run with him to keep up because I told him I would walk on the sideline and videotape,” said Olivia Goutoufas, Jordan’s buddy for the day.
The oath taken by all Special Olympics athletes is recited before beginning the day. “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” Every Olympian is presented a gold medal regardless of score or placement. The mission of Special Olympics is to give the opportunity for those with intellectual disabilities to demonstrate courage and experience joy while sharing their gifts, skills, and friendship with others in the community. Support was given as junior Maddie Waller clasped Calla Reardin’s hand as she walked in her first race. Skill was demonstrated as Juan Arroyo won first place in the 50 Meter Walk and Julie Russell powered through the finish line after running in the 50 Meter Dash. Daniel Justiniano break-dancing, Maggie Mahon posing in her crown, and Lia Lewers showing a rare smile are all results of the purely encouraging, no-judgment atmosphere.
The point of celebration is the finish line according to ESE teacher Mary Radigan, “Each athlete is elated and proud as he or she crosses the finish line. The fans are what make Special Olympics.” Support from the athlete’s teachers and fellow students help the safe atmosphere develop at their home field..