It was a festive affair as 750 athletes from the Hudson Valley, New York City, Long Island, and Capital Region competed in this year's annual Special Olympics hosted by the U.S. Military Academy April 20 at Shea Stadium.
Hosted by the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership, the event featured swimming, track & field, powerlifting, and the javelin throw, among other events and was led by the Corps of Cadets as they worked ceaselessly to organize and run the event with the assistance of volunteers.
Lt. Col. Stephen Fennessy served as the officer in-charge of the event reliving moments from his days as a cadet organizing the Special Olympics.
I participated with Special Olympics when I was a Cadet in the Management Program, and I am thankful to be involved now, as a member of the management faculty," Fennessy. "The Department of BS&L, and the Management Program, have a longstanding relationship with Special Olympics."
Fennessy expressed how proud and thankful he was of the cadets for their unwavering work and support and believes their selflessness helped create "a memorable day for hundreds of Special Olympians and their families."
As they event concluded, Atheletes were rewarded medals ranging from bronze to gold for their tireless efforts during each athletic event.
"I think that anyone involved with Special Olympics leaves inspired. The athletes, and their approach to competing, is a lesson for us all," Fennessy concluded. "Ultimately, I think that all involved leave with a renewed sense of the importance of serving others."