Special athletes compete at Yokota

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Val Gempis
  • Air Force Print News
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Pouring rain did not stop about 3,000 volunteers, athletes and spectators from participating in the 25th annual Kanto Plains Special Olympics here May 8 and 9.

“It was a little soggy and cold, but seeing the smile and joy on the kids faces makes you feel warm inside,” said Master Sgt. Shari Wicks, who was among a group of 374th Airlift Wing Airmen who presented medals and ribbons May 9.

The games are part of an international sports training and competition program for disabled people. Founded in 1968, Special Olympics International in Washington has now grown to encompass more than 160 countries worldwide.

“This event brings everybody together. It gives the athletes the chance to have fun and it’s also a great opportunity to enhance our relations with our neighbors here in Japan,” said Chief Master Sgt. Kevin White, superintendent of the 374th Security Forces Squadron.

In 1980, local Non Commissioned Officers Association officials established the games here. They began the program with only three athletes from the Department of Defense Dependents Schools. They are the only games held in Japan that are sanctioned by Special Olympics International.

More than 500 athletes participated in the games this year. Some of the sporting events included basketball, track and field, swimming, high jump and the softball throw.

“It was really exciting to see the athletes [be] so happy,” said Airman 1st Class Amber Hough. “It was so much fun.”