"SPECIAL OLYMPICS IN MAHOPAC" by moiraistyx

Mahopac High School was the proud sponsor of the NY southern regional Special Olympics for 2006. There were over 600 participants and hundreds of volunteers and spectators. The festivities started off with a parade lead by the Mahopac High School marching band. Following behind them were participants representing Bronx, Mahopac, Ulster County, Dutchess County, Yonkers, White Plains and Orange County. The weather didn't look very promising, but it turned out to be a great time for all.

In the traditional style of lighting the Olympic Torch, a participant and a volunteer took a lap around the track and lit the torch. Shorty afterwards the Special Olympics pledge was recitied by all.

"In ancient Rome, the gladiators went into the arena with these words on their lips: 'Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.'

"Today, all of you young athletes are in the arena. Many of you will win, but even more important, I know you will be brave, and bring credit to your parents and to your country. Let us begin the Olympics. Thank you."

Eunice Kennedy Shriver opened the first Special Olympics games in July 1968 with the above passage.

Please visit the website below to find out more information about the Special Olympics. I encourage people to get involved in anyway they can.

http://www.specialolympics.org/Special+Olympics+Public+Website/English/About_Us/default.htm