WILMINGTON – More than 500 athletes from across New Hanover County competed in the annual Special Olympics Spring Games on Wednesday at the Greene Track and Field Complex on the campus of UNC-Wilmington.
Friends, families and more than 300 volunteers cheered on participants in various events throughout the day.
“This is a perfect way to get everyone out as our athletes and volunteers alike really look forward to this day each year. We get to enjoy the sunshine and what’s great about it, is we get to get the kids out of their daily routine,” New Hanover County Special Olympics Coordinator Tiffany Lesley said.
Athletes from different schools and special needs facilities competed in the 25 meter, 50 meter, 100 meter and 200 meter races, in addition to long jumping and wheelchair events, and softball and tennis ball throws.
“It’s not every day the kids get to compete against their peers. It’s a very special day. There’s so much support from around the community and I’m thankful for that,” said Lesley, who’s been running the local branch of the Special Olympics for seven years.
