Celebrating Special Olympics athletes

Northwest Special Recreation Association, a nonprofit agency which provides recreational opportunities to children and adults with disabilities throughout 17 northwest suburbs, celebrated Special Olympics Illinois Area 18 Spring Games Sunday, May 3, at Prospect High School in Mount Prospect.

Families, volunteers and spectators cheered on runners, shot-putters and other athletes as they competed in the largest area event of the year for Special Olympics Illinois Area 18.

Spectators watched the competition and experienced the joy of achievement with over 700 Special Olympics athletes. In addition, over 1,200 volunteers were on hand at the event.

The event began at 7:30 a.m., with the opening ceremonies starting at 9:15 a.m. Competition followed immediately and concluded at around 2 p.m.

Sponsors for the Special Olympics Illinois Area 18 Spring Games were: Partners, Schneider Electric/Square D and Pliant Corporation; media partner, Daily Herald; gold sponsors, Knights of Columbus and UPS; and bronze sponsor, Barbizon Modeling and Acting Centers.

Special Olympics Illinois Area 18 would like to thank all of the volunteers and staff for their efforts, and congratulations to all of the day's athletes for their outstanding performances.