SPORTS400 words

The Kiwanis Special Games were held at De Anza on the college track, on May 20.

A roaring crowd of spectators cheered as the competitors made their way down the track waving their banners proudly. The event started at 8:00 a.m. and concluded at 1:30 p.m.

“It’s always an amazing event. Its both amazing and inspiring seeing these children compete” Belmont KIWANI president Martin Mansmann said.

The even saw more than 900 kids participating from 90 different schools around the Bay Area. Among the local schools participating were: Santa Teresa High School, Willow Glenn High School and Westmont High.

“I always find something to encourage my athletes. Every day is a challenge in their lives and they do very well at exceeding expectations,” said Bryan Bennett, an orthopedic impairment teacher and coach.

KIWANIS is a worldwide non-profit organization, founded in 1915, that reaches out to children and their communities and offers services to benefit their well being.

“Our goal is to have every child participate, no matter their disability. At our Olympics, everybody wins,” principal of the county office of education Nancy Guerrero said.

KIWANI members emphasize the fact that unlike the Special Olympics, these special games exclude no child whereas the Special Olympics require a higher level of functioning.

Participants got to compete in events ranging from: NERF archery, Frisbee throwing, 100 yard dash and even wheelchair races. At the end of every competition, children were rewarded with a colored ribbon for their efforts.

“This is the most important KIWANIS event of the year. As a KIWANIS family member, it is an honor and privilege to support these athletes to feel like champions and winners,” KIWANI lieutenant governor Mike Montanari said.

The Foothill/ De Anza district hosted the first Kiwanis Special Games in 1979, on the Foothill College Fields

“The heart of these kids is bigger than any professional athlete that I have ever seen,” said John O’ Connor, a member of the San Francisco KIWANI division.

Relatives cheered from the sideline and offered their emotional support. Even as the day came to an end, the children’s presence and energy could still be felt on the college track. “These events are important because it allows our children to participate in a social environment,” grandfather Geirge Hannagan said, “I’m amazed by how these kids manage to surpass all their obstacles, they are truly great at exceeding standards.”