Special Olympics: All athletes deserve a chance to shine

The Special Olympics competition held at Eastern Wayne High School this week provided Wayne County athletes with special needs a chance to show their stuff.

And they did, thanks to the help of the volunteers who helped put on the annual event.

All athletes, no matter their ability, deserve a chance to show what they can do, and to watch Special Olympians run, jump and throw gives an observer a different perspective on sports and those who play.

We all enjoy watching world class athletes compete. But there is special joy in watching these Special Olympians put forth their best effort, no matter what their skill level might be.

No, it isn't the same as watching North Carolina play basketball or watching Major League Baseball players begin a new season. But it is still competition, and all competition is compelling. These athletes, and the volunteers who work with them, offer us a different perspective on sports.  It's not who wins or loses in the Special Olympics. All participants are winners, and that gives the competition a different tone. After all, it is the physical act of competing that is important, not who takes home the biggest trophy.

For these athletes, the real trophy is getting out there and having the chance to demonstrate what they can do. We can all learn a lesson from their determination.

Published in Editorials on April 7, 2017 9:27 AM