This news item expired on Thursday, May 2, 2019 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
Buncombe County Special Olympics will host more than 500 athletes at its annual Spring Games on Thursday, May 2, from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at T.C. Roberson High School’s football stadium and track (250 Overlook Road in Asheville). Community members are invited to join families and volunteers as they cheer on competitors during runs, walks, relays, long jump, shot put, ball and bag tosses, and ball rolls. The event is free for spectators.
“Spring Games is our largest competition of the year,” said Karla Furnari of Buncombe County Recreation Services, who is also a Buncombe County Special Olympics coach and Local Coordinator. “Like other local athletes, Special Olympics athletes need to hear the cheers and encouragement of their fans to reach their highest potential. They’ve worked hard all year and this is a great way to celebrate before summer arrives.”
The day will begin with the Opening Ceremony which includes a law enforcement torch run. Each athlete can enter up to two events, choosing those that challenge them to exhibit their maximum skill. Events are divided into categories including developmental, traditional, and lead up and wheelchair.
Want to Cheer on the Athletes?
- What: Buncombe County Special Olympics Spring Games
- When: Thursday, May 2, 2019, from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (Rain date is Friday, May 3.)
- Where: TC Roberson High School on 250 Overlook Road in Asheville
Buncombe County Special Olympics is made possible through funding from donors and support from Buncombe County Government. To donate or volunteer, visit buncombecountyspecialolympics.org.
Special Olympics was founded by Eunice Kennedy in 1968 to celebrate changing attitudes about the talents of people with intellectual disabilities. Buncombe County Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for youth and adults. Sports include alpine skiing and snowboarding, aquatics, athletics, basketball, bocce, bowling, cheerleading, gymnastics, powerlifting, soccer, and tennis. The organization also offers the Adaptive Athlete Program in a partnership with South Slope CrossFit and Buncombe County Recreation Services.