ATHENS, Ala. — Athens City Schools held the annual Athens-Limestone County Track and Field Special Olympics on Friday, May 5, 2023, at Athens Stadium, with opening ceremonies at 9:00 AM. This community-wide event supports children and adults with special abilities, regardless of mobility or age. Athletes ranged from 8 years old to adults, all with exceptionalities. The event is organized by a committee of Athens City Schools representatives, Limestone County Schools representatives, and community partners. Special Olympics provides the opportunity for these amazing athletes to discover and showcase strengths, abilities, skills, and success through the transformative power of sports.
Athens City Schools Exceptional Services Coordinator Jessica Lynn explained this day is very important for several reasons. "This is so important for them to just have a day to shine, to have all of the community come out and cheer them on and and get to compete in an event like this." Lynn said about 100 athletes are competing across Limestone County, Athens City Schools, and the Birdie Thornton Center in Athens.
Creekside Elementary 5th grader Ava Mears said this was her favorite part of the day. "I liked throwing the ball." Athens Intermediate School 4th grader Kellan Widby says this is what he is looking forward to next in the competition. "Run!"
Lynn said this has been a wonderful event overall and, ".... we are just so happy to to bring this event back to Athens and we look forward to continuing to do this in the future. "