CENTRAL — Southern Wesleyan University will play host to Special Olympics South Carolina Area 14 on April 18.

Children and adults from across the Upstate will compete in track and field events, which will include standing long jump, softball and tennis ball throw, 100 meter walk and run, 50 meter walk and run, 50 and 100 meter assisted walk and run, and wheelchair races.

The parade of athletes will begin promptly at 9:30 a.m. followed by opening ceremonies and events.

Events are set to conclude by 1 p.m.

The Spring Games will also have events for Young athletes; athletes ages 2-7.

Special Olympics South Carolina provides year-round athletic training and competition for 28,902 children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

The games offer 26 Olympic-style sports and host more than 400 competitions each year.

Special Olympics South Carolina Area 14 provides year round athletic training and competition and offers six different sports for athletes to train and compete in; bocce, tennis, swimming, bowling, basketball and track and field events.

“We are so very honored to host the Special Olympics again this year and recognize the amazing partnership we have developed,” said Southern Wesleyan’s President, Dr. Todd Voss. “It is a highlight of our school year and a life transforming element for our students and our Special Olympians!”

Hosting Anderson County’s Spring Games comes at a time when Southern Wesleyan is collaborating with disabilities and special needs boards in Anderson and Pickens counties as well as at the state level to seek ways to serve the special needs population and to provide meaningful experiences for students majoring in special education or other students interested in working with those with disabilities and special needs.

For more information, visit Special Olympics South Carolina Area 14 at www.so-sc.org/area14 or email Area14@so-sc.org.

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By Kasie Strickland

kstrickland@championcarolinas.com

Reach Kasie Strickland at 864-855-0355.