Halton District School Board (HDSB) students are gearing up to take part in the 36th annual special athletes' track meet.
The event for those with physical and developmental challenges is set to happen Friday, June 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Garth Webb Secondary School in Oakville.
More than 470 athletes are expected to participate in-person - a significant increase from the original 12 athletes who participated when the event began in 1987.
Those who attend will compete in events like 100-metre races, basketball, T-ball, soccer, bowling, obstacle courses, bean bag toss and additional sensory stations.
They’ll be joined at the school by coaches, school staff and home school peers, friends, family members and volunteers.
“This event provides athletes with special needs with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and celebrate their successes with fellow students, friends and family,” says a press release from the HDSB.
Opening ceremonies are scheduled to take place at 10 a.m. and the HDSB marching band will lead the athletes’ parade.
The Optimist Clubs of Halton Hills, Milton, Oakville and Burlington will be donating and serving hot dogs, hamburgers and cold drinks at the meet.
If the event has to be postponed due to weather, it will be bumped to Tuesday, June 20.
