Buncombe County Launches Annual Spring Games for Special Olympics

Special Olympics athletes participate in spring games event

News Summary

Buncombe County kicked off its annual spring games, celebrating athletes at a ceremonial start with the Law Enforcement Torch Run. Over 600 local athletes participate in this vibrant community event, showcasing their skills and sportsmanship. The event promotes inclusion and community support and features various competitions, vendors, and live music. The Special Olympics North Carolina Athlete Council also announced new leadership members to advocate for athletes statewide, as the organization continues to grow and emphasize the importance of diverse sports offerings for all participants.

Buncombe County launched its annual spring games for Special Olympics this Thursday, marking the start of an exciting season for athletes and the community. The event featured a ceremonial start with the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which commenced at Chick-fil-A on Hendersonville Road and concluded at T.C. Roberson High School.

Local law enforcement, including Buncombe County deputies and Asheville police officers, participated alongside athletes, completing a lap around the stadium to honor the spirit and determination of the competitors. This year’s games have drawn over 600 local athletes, who will showcase their skills and sportsmanship throughout the event.

The opening ceremony was highlighted by the lighting of a torch, symbolizing the official commencement of the spring games. Among those present was Buncombe County Sgt. William Fisher, who expressed pride in the participation of the deputies, particularly those serving as School Resource Officers. This sense of community support is evident as athletes, coaches, and volunteers gather to celebrate inclusion and achievement.

One of the notable participants this year is Henry Barrett, a senior at IC Imagine Charter School, who shared his enthusiasm about lighting the torch. This event serves as the first of two scheduled spring competitions; the next gathering is set for May 8 at A.C. Reynolds High School.

In addition to the local events, the Special Olympics North Carolina Athlete Council has recently elected new members to serve terms beginning in 2025. This leadership team consists of active Special Olympics athletes from various regions of North Carolina and meets quarterly to foster athlete voices and policy advocacy. Newly elected members include the Chairman, Jake Huffman; Vice Chair, Dean Hall; and Secretary, Amanda Faggart.

Since its inception in 1968, Special Olympics North Carolina has grown significantly, now serving nearly 45,000 athletes statewide. The importance of this organization is amplified by its innovative outreach efforts, like those initiated by the Haywood County Special Olympics. This initiative includes the opening of a new office in Waynesville, alongside the introduction of year-round sports and activities designed to engage athletes continuously.

The co-coordinators for Haywood County Special Olympics—Matt Shell, Brandi Stephenson, and Brook Messer—are dedicated to expanding offerings for athletes, particularly following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. They are aiming to introduce new sports such as tennis, equestrian, and bocce ball, thereby broadening the spectrum of activities available to local participants.

The 2023 Spring Games are expected to be a vibrant community event, complete with vendors, food trucks, and live music, encapsulating the ethos of the Special Olympics. The motto, “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in my attempt,” underscores the spirit of competition and courage that defines the Special Olympics.

Moreover, Haywood County Special Olympics is committed to ensuring that all its programs are free for participants, while actively seeking volunteers and coaches to support their expanded programming. This outreach promises to enrich the lives of athletes involved by providing them with diverse opportunities to thrive.

This year’s Special Olympics events not only highlight athletic prowess but also emphasize inclusivity and community support, celebrating the determination and achievements of all athletes involved.