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Garland ISD athletes shine at Special Olympics event

Rowlett Lakeshore Times - 4/22/2018

This year's Garland ISD's Special Olympics track and field competition was held on April 18 at Williams Stadium for a fun-filled day of friendly competition. This event provides elementary, middle and high school special education students across the district a chance to showcase their track and field athleticism.

This is the second year the official Special Olympics event has been held for Garland ISD students. Staff, family and peers gathered at the outdoor event to cheer on their student athlete in a variety of track and field competitions.

Among the competitors was Schrade Middle School sixth-grader David Leon, who took first place in the javelin competition and also competed in the 100-meter dash.

"It feels good, and I feel like the best," he said about taking first.

Many of the special education athletes were paired with peers from outside special education program, like seventh-grader Cayden Wilson, who chose to pair up with his friend Leon.

"At our school we play together, sometimes we play football or basketball and then we started meeting each other (to hang out)," Wilson said. "So I decided to pair up with him."

He added that he thinks the event is "pretty cool" and gives the kids confidence.

Schrade's Partners P.E. coach Clint Hankey said the kids love the competition Special Olympics offers them.

"Just to see them compete and want to do better is always good. Some days are easier than others, but for the most part they like the competition aspect," he said.

Another competitor at the event was Keeley Elementary third-grader Christian Hamilton, who took third place in the 100-meter dash.

Hamilton said he felt happy about winning third place.

"I'm excited and proud (of him)," said mother Irma Hamilton.