Oakville track meet offers special athletes chance to show off their skills

It’s a special day on the track for special athletes from Halton District School Board (HDSB) schools across Burlington, Oakville, Milton and Halton Hills.

More than 470 student athletes are set to compete in the HDSB’s 36th annual Special Athletes’ Track Meet next Friday (June 16) at Garth Webb Secondary School in Oakville.

The track meet for athletes with physical and developmental challenges will run from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with opening ceremonies set for 10 a.m.

The annual event for special athletes has grown in leaps and bounds over the years with almost 500 students taking part this year, a significant increase from the 12 athletes who participated when the event began in 1987.

This track meet provides athletes with special needs with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and celebrate their successes with fellow students, friends and family.

Events the special athletes will be competing in include 100-metre races, basketball, T-ball, soccer, bowling, obstacle courses, bean bag toss and additional sensory stations.

The athletes will have plenty of support and encouragement with coaches, school staff, fellow students, family and volunteers all on hand to cheer them on.

The Optimist Clubs of Halton Hills, Milton, Oakville and Burlington will be donating and serving hot dogs, hamburgers and cold drinks at the meet, while the HDSB marching band, led by a Sam Sherratt Public School teacher, will lead the athletes’ parade.

Garth Webb Secondary School in Oakville is located at 2820 Westoak Trails Blvd. The rain/heat date for this event will be June 20 at the same location.