UGDSB students unite for 2023 Special Olympics

May 17, 2023

GUELPH, ON – After a long three years, the Special Olympics Track and Field Day returned on May 17, 2023.

Hosted at St. James Catholic High School’s sports field in Guelph, this event saw more than 600 participants from all grade levels, along with their coaches, from schools across the Upper Grand District School Board and Wellington Catholic District School Board.

This year, events at the Special Olympics included the 50m, 100m and 200m races, standing/running long jump, softball throw, as well as many adaptive events including an obstacle course, t-ball, pop bottle bowling and more.

Kicking off the event saw each participant and their coach make their way around the track behind the torch and flag bearers while fans and onlookers cheered as loudly as they could. To officially mark the start of the games, a flock of pigeons was released over the crowd.

Guest speakers this year included UGDSB Director of Education Peter Sovran, WCDSB Director of Education Michael Glazier, CEO of Ontario Special Olympics Glenn MacDonell, Senior Director of Community Living Guelph/Wellington Natalie Robinson and Guelph Police Chief Gord Cobey.

This amazing event was made possible by the UGDSB, WCDSB, Ontario Special Olympics, Community Living Guelph/Wellington and the City of Guelph.

When reflecting on the event, UG Director of Education Peter Sovran said, “today’s ‘Better Together’ event celebrating Special Olympics Track and Field is a wonderful example of the partnership between Upper Grand and the Wellington Catholic District School Boards to support student excellence, diversity and inclusion. It takes hundreds of caring people, from staff, peer coaches, parents and caregivers, along with generous community organizations to make this day a success. Thank you everyone for making this Special Olympics event a truly special day for all!”

Congratulations to all students and coaches who participated in the 2023 Special Olympic Games.