Athletes Gather For MontCo Special Olympics Track Meet
by Kristen Johanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- On a beautiful spring morning, 200 athletes gathered in Hatboro-Horsham High School for the Montgomery County Special Olympics Track Meet.
"I got first place!" Jake said, after he competed. "I do the standing long jump, the softball throw, and the 50 meter dash."
While Mary, who goes to Wissahickon High School, spent her 21st birthday on the sidelines, watching her friends. "I'm cheering on for the Olympics."
More than 400 volunteers helped to keep the event running smoothly. Tammy Norris organized the event, between 13 school districts in the county.
"It's a really great day for them to participate in something they don't usually get to participate in," she said. "If you just saw the look on their face once they get a blue ribbon, or a red ribbon, it's just the world to them."
Norris said it would be impossible to put on without the high school student 'buddies,' who are paired with each athlete as they go from event to event.
"I love working with the kids, and helping them out, and when I found out you could get involved and help out, I just jumped right in," said Hatboro Horsham High School Sophomore, Ashley.
Her buddy is Eric, who has been preparing for months to race in the 50 meter dash.
"I don't have a time, but I'll do well," he said. "If I went really fast, I'll win. But if I cannot win, I'll be brave in the attempt."
For more information on the Montgomery County Special Olympics, head to http://www.specialolympicsmontco.org/