The Milner Recreation Center was bursting to the rafters with excitement and energy at the annual McMinnville Special Games Saturday. Over 100 special participants and their supporters crowded into the gym to cheer on the athletes. The adult events began at 10 a.m., while the children's events started at 1 p.m.
“It was an amazing day!” said Holly McBride, president of the organization. “We had 117 special men, women and children competing in the softball throw, the broad jump, the 30-yard dash and the wheel chair race.”
Many community volunteers like Penny Jordan, McBride and Donna Wanamaker were on hand to assist and encourage the participants throughout the day. McBride also thanked the crowds and asked for help in taking things down afterwards from any and all volunteers.
“Most of us are working on little-to-no sleep and we should would appreciate any help after we get through these activities,” she appealed, to great applause.
Their hard work was worth it. Special Games attempts to encourage a special feeling of acceptance in all its participants. “Everyone is a winner and everyone had a great time! The atmosphere was amazing,” said McBride. “The center was filled with families and caregivers in the stands cheering the special athletes on.”
It is a hard two days of work for the MSG team and McBride is thankful to all the volunteers who came out and helped to make this event possible. She declared the day "a total success!”
Other activities were available to participants upstairs including bouncy castles and concessions. All concessions and activities were free to special needs participants and their families and caregivers. The competitions were open for special needs individuals ages 5 and up.
Contact Holly McBride, president of the McMinnville Special Games at (931) 808-8816 for more information about the non-profit organization. They are devoted to enriching the lives of men, women and children with special needs in the community. Created in 2012, the organization has grown into an abundant community of families and volunteers who love and support one another in their endeavors.
