Lewis Central Students participate in Special Olympics
by Jill Neeley
October 18, 2008
On Wednesday, October 8, 200, 26 Lewis Central students competed in the Southwest Iowa bowling tournament at the Thunderdome alley. The Special Olympics athletes participated as single bowlers. Ramp bowling was available for Special Olympics athletes who were unable to throw their own bowling ball. The tournament started at 10 am with the opening pledge, said by all participants: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. It gives them the opportunity to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.
Children and adults with intellectual disabilities who participate in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills, greater self-confidence and a more positive self-image. They grow mentally, socially and spiritually and, through their activities, exhibit boundless courage and enthusiasm, enjoy the rewards of friendship and ultimately discover not only new abilities and talents but "their voices" as well.
The competition continued through 2:30 p.m.
Source: http://www.specialolympics.org
