Determination and Empowerment is the focus for Special Olympics “Let me win and if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt” is the oath recited by these Special Olympic Athletes. And determined they are. The Knights of Columbus Flag Relay event overflowed with special people – both the athletes and the people there wishing them well.
"The Knights of Columbus Flag Relay event waves the Special Olympics flag and is raising funds and awareness for Special Olympics Oakville", said James Montague chair of the Knights of Columbus Oakville Flag Relay. The flags were displayed in the Oakville area from February 6th to February 19th and this festive Flag Raising event, held at St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Secondary School, included participants from Community Living Oakville, and Special Olympics athletes. It was an opportunity for the community to officially welcome the Special Olympics and its Flag!
The dignitaries were paraded in to the ceremony by the Knights of Columbus Colour Guard, dressed in full regalia, by the Bagpipes and the Special Olympic Flag, carried by Special Olympic athletes, Andrew Beauchesne and Robin Coster. O'Canada was sung by the Ignatius of Loyola High School Choir. To support, bring best wishes and congratulate these athletes, Deputy Chief Andy Glynn Oakville Fire, Deputy Chief Christine Barber Halton EMS, Inspector Ivan Lortye, of Halton Police Services.Oakville, Mayor Rob Burton and MP John Oliver were among the community members who gathered to proudly show their support of these amazing athletes.
The Provincial Summer Games will be held July 13-16 2017. According to the Special Olympics website, the Mission Statement states that its goal is “To provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities.”
It goes on to say that the “Special Olympics promotes opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and develop skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympic athletes and the community. Over the past 40 years Special Olympics has grown from a modest program serving local athletes to become the world’s largest movement dedicated to promoting respect, acceptance, inclusion, and human dignity for people with intellectual disabilities through sports.”
Oakville looks forward to following the progress and success of these talented and dedicated athletes.