The Special Olympics is the newest event in San Marino High School, where kids with disabilities get to compete in track and field events such as long jump, 50 meter and 100 meter dash. Kids from both the high school and Huntington Middle School competed on the track during lunch time, where multiple teachers brought out their classes to watch and support the event, creating an exciting atmosphere for the students. One of the helpers of this event includes Anjali Rao,12, whose role included announcing all the different races and the winners, and giving the kids their medals. When asked about what she thought of the event, she responded, “I think the event was  great, and I love how the students get to compete with each other.”

The first event of the day was a 50 meter dash. Kids from ages 13-17 lined up on the track, placing themselves before the starting line. When a whistle was blown, all the kids raced off to the finish line, where a bright, long piece of paper was waiting for them to be run through. After much cheering, a student from the middle school won the race. He was awarded a first place medal and took his place on the first place podium, high above everyone else, where he had his picture taken. Another 50 meter dash took place next between two kids in wheelchairs. With two helpers pushing them, they were cheered on by the crowd and other contestants, making their way to the line. The race was intense, with one kid taking the lead, but the other quickly caught up. Eventually, after a hard fought race, the two contestants ended up with a tie, and both received medals and shared the podium. In the final race of the day, the contestants would run a 100 meter dash. Among the contestants included Asher Bibee Stephens,9, who was a fan favorite. Immediately after the race started, Asher gained a huge lead, among the other students, and raced to the finish line, earning first place in the 100 meter dash. Asher would receive his medal, and stand on the first place podium. When Stanley Hung,11, was asked about the event, he stated, “I like it because I like seeing new people and all the aids and new kids. In special olympics they do not have to be perfect. The Special Olympics is special to us, because we are able to make new memories and have fun.” The Special Olympics are a great addition to the school, where kids with special needs are able to compete in events and activities that they would not usually be able to compete in, creating new memorable experiences for the students.