Video: Champions Compete In Special Olympics

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PONTOTOC, MISS. (WCBI) – At this sporting event, a soloist performed “The National Anthem.”

There was an invocation, and the games were underway. More than 500 athletes from seven counties across Northeast Mississippi took part in the “Special Olympics.”

Athletes ages three years old to adults competed in track and field events, the softball and tennis ball throw, horseshoes and other games.

Since 1992, Special Olympics has given champions throughout Northeast Mississippi a chance to show off their skills.

“This is their day , and they know it and they look forward to it, from the very first day of school, every year they want to know, when is Special Olympics?” said Patricia Holcomb, director of Northeast Mississippi Area Special Olympics.

Hundreds of volunteers, parents and chaperones crowded onto the field behind Pontotoc High School.

Kallie Roberts is a junior at East Union Attendance Center. She was helping six year old Bailie Rager.

“It’s just a great way to be thankful, for how God made you and stuff like that, because they would give anything in the world to do stuff that we are able to do and to see them smile , makes your heart smile,” Roberts said.

Bailie said she has been practicing for the games.

“I love to run fast,” Bailey said.
Do you run at home?
“I run at home, I have challenges at home, and I beat Daddy every time,” she said.
You beat him every time?
“I sure do,” Bailie said.

Each competitor has a favorite challenge.

“The 100, because it’s so awesome, you get to run, it’s so much fun, when you run , run really fast, and all you have to do is just catch up, do your best,” said Collin Overstreet, of Saltillo High School.

At these games, no one goes home empty handed.

“Everyone here is a winner,” Overstreet said.

About 70 athletes from the event will advance to the state games next month in Biloxi.