Some of the events are:
Running races
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Ski moguls
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Pirouetting on skates
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Tossing softballs
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Tennis |
Lifting weights
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A complete timeline of the history of the
Special Olympics can be found on their website.
Special Olympics prove that people of all backgrounds, cultures, races and ages can work together peaceably to celebrate what we have in common and to focus on those in need (
http://www.specialolympics.org/build_communities.aspx). The Special Olympics organization leads the world in researching and addressing the concerns of people with intellectual disabilities. At 200 million individuals, it is the largest disability group in the world. They identify pressing issues facing this group, commission and conduct high-level, externally validated scientific research, then reach out to the highest leaders in government, health care, education, the nonprofit sector and business to influence policy and to bring valuable services to those in need. Special Olympics’ research into intellectual disability, and perceptions of those who have intellectual disability, are a catalytic force for social and policy change around the globe.
The R-Word pledge is a movement designed to stop the use of the word retard. The word has been used in the past to insult or put down others. The challenge is to stop people from doing that. The more acceptable phrase is intellectually challenged, when referring to a member of this diverse group of individuals (
http://www.specialolympics.org/r-word.aspx).
East Carolina University Physicians have provided Special Olympic athletes with physical examinations since 2001. The athletes are required to have a physical once every three years. Pitt County has approximately 500 active Special Olympics participants. North Carolina has active participation in tournaments. The Fall events take place in High Point, NC, in November.
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