Andhra Pradesh - Visakhapatnam   

A special occasion for special children indeed

Photo: K.R. Deepak

Far Ahead: Physically and mentally challenged students taking part in Special Olympics conducted by Junior Chamber International in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. —

VISAKHAPATNAM: They were all bubbling with zeal and enthusiasm. The eagerness was so strong among them to compete in various sports events that a few of them started as early as 6 a.m. from their house for the Police Stadium where the Special Olympics for the differently-abled children were held on Sunday under the aegis of Junior Chamber International Vizag (JCI Vizag).

Schools from Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, Rajahmundary and Kakinada, besides, Visakhapatnam participated in the Special Olympics in various events like 50 metres and 100 metres dash, standing long jump, three-legged race, bucketing the ball, tricycle race, tug-of-war etc. Along with the children, their teachers also cheered the contestants.

Teachers were seen transferring tips to the participants with fervour till the end of the competition. The sporting spirit of the children was visible throughout the competition.

Ch. Appa, a fourth standard student of Vikas School in Vizianagaram felt elated while he talked about being part of ‘bucketing the ball’ competition.JCI Vizag president V. Ravi Kumar told that more than 30 institutions and 635 children in the age group between four to 18 years participated in competition and around 100 students took part in cultural programmes. The response was tremendous and there were 20 coaches and dedicated teachers who made the event happen. Visually challenged, hearing and speech disabled, physically and mentally challenged were the categories under which the event was held. Snacks and fruits were provided to all the participating children. A team of doctors was present on the venue to take care of any eventuality.

Sankalp (Naval School for special children) Principal Monica Srivastava, said, “the event was very well organised.”

Though wheel chair race was not scheduled in the Olympics but it was included on request.

Zone-IV President-JCI- India Murali Mohan Rao attended.

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