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By Brian O’Shea, Plateau Daily News
Macon County Special Olympics held its annual Spring Games at Highlands School last month, hosting dozens of athletes throughout the county.
Opening Ceremony at the Special Olympics Spring Games hosted by Highlands School. Athletes from schools throughout Macon County competed in May.
Traditionally held at Macon Middle School, MC Special Olympics Coordinator Jennifer Garrett said there were some problems with the track and a new venue was needed, and Highlands School was chosen.
Highlands School’s track was a great venue for the MC Special Olympic spring games.
Athletes from schools and groups throughout Macon County competed in events on HS’ track including the tennis ball throw, softball throw, and a several races.
Law enforcement from throughout Macon County were present and kicking off the games was Highlands Police Detective Tim Broughton who carried the torch around the track during the opening ceremony.
HPD Detective Tim Broughton carries the torch during the opening ceremony.
“Personally, I thought the event went very well and Sarah Holbrooks and all of Highlands School was amazing to work with,” said Garrett. “The athletes did amazing and were given medals for first, second and third place. There were several athletes that performed especially well that day and that is amazing to see.”
Highlands School Principal Sarah Holbrooks said they were happy to help and described the event as a “picture-perfect day.”
It was a gorgeous day to have a blast at the MC spring games.
“We had lots of law enforcement present throughout the day; they helped with traffic flow and volunteered with various tasks throughout the day,” said Holbrooks. “Highlands School students in Grades K-12 enjoyed having this experience at our school and many were able to come out and cheer on the athletes, or even help volunteer.”
She added that it was an incredible experience and would be happy to do it again.
“As a former Special Education teacher, these amazing athletes hold a special place in my heart,” said Holbrooks. “It was really nice to see our Highlands community come together and support our athletes. We will be happy to host the Special Olympics again at any point in the future. A big thank you to the Special Olympics board for making this experience a success!”
An athlete celebrates with the Chick-Fil-A Cow after finishing a race.
Other schools and groups throughout Macon County that participated include Iotla, South Macon, Macon Middle, Mountain View, Franklin High, community athletes, and Macon Citizens Habilities. This year was also the first year that Clay County participated in Macon County’s local spring games.
Macon County Sheriff Brent Holbrooks congratulates a medal winner at Special Olympics Macon County’s annual Spring Games held at Highlands School in May.
Garrett said bringing an event together for the athletes like the Special Olympics spring games would not be possible without support from the community.
Highlands school students cheered on athletes and volunteered to help the event run smoothly. Highlands Fire & Rescue and other EMS personnel also volunteered.
“There are so many shoutouts,” said Garret. “Walmart, Macon County Sheriff Dept., Highlands School and student volunteers, Chick-fil-a, Macon County Schools, Macon County Public Health, Highlands Fire and Police departments, and my Special Olympics Committee. Also special thanks to the parents and caregivers.”
An athlete proudly shows off his medal.
Highlands School volunteers are rocking a Caribbean theme and pose with the Chik-fil-a Cow.
An athlete humbly accepts a medal and receives congratulations from MC Sherriff Brent Holbrooks.
MC Paramedics Hannah Wing and Chandler Ellenburg strolled the track and cheered on athletes.
An athlete cracks a smile as she crosses the finish line.
Sometimes racers had a wingman making it a team effort.
Highlands School elementary students cheering on athletes.
Law enforcement agencies from throughout Macon County ran a lap during the opening ceremony of the Special Olympic spring games.