Students, families and staff from B.W. Robinson State School in Rolla, Ozark Hills State School in Salem, and the Gingerbread House in Rolla gathered at Lion’s Club Park on May 16, to participate in their Special Olympics Challenge Day. 

Living up to the motto, “Let Us Win, and Let Us Be Brave in the Attempt,” the students competed in numerous events such as relay races, bicycle races, javelin throw, and numerous throwing games.

More than 50 participants, ranging in ages from 5 to 25, enjoyed the friendly competition and the beautiful weather. 

The event began with the march of the athletes, followed by the pledge of allegiance and the recitation of the Special Olympics motto.

The participants then competed in the events, which were organized by State School P.E. Teacher, Patti Schmutzler.  After the games, everyone enjoyed a barbecue, with Don Brown, retired principal, and John Murphey, friend of the school, acting as chefs. 
Toni Dautenhahn, the home-school coordinator, put together the rest of the meal. 
After the barbecue, students, families, and staff members took leisurely walks around the lake, played on the handicapped-accessible playground, and took turns on the swings. 

Before returning to their schools, the participants all received medals for their efforts. 

Challenge Day, an offshoot of Special Olympics, is intended to provide fun, meaningful sports-related activities for children with special needs. 

“From the looks on the faces of the students, it is obvious that everyone had a great time,” said Teacher in Charge Dean Smith.