As the torch was extinguished on the Special Olympics in Chatham-Kent on Wednesday, organizers encouraged athletes to keep up the positive momentum in their hometowns.
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A large crowd was on hand for the closing ceremonies, held at the John D. Bradley Convention Center after the second and final day of the Ontario School Championship Games.
Games manager, Chatham-Kent police Sgt. Jason Herder, said the celebratory event was to honor participants for their courage, determination and sportsmanship.
“These games have embodied the true essence of the Special Olympics,” he told the gathering. “Your enthusiasm is infectious.”
The annual provincewide event featured more than 750 high school athletes in five sports: bocce, basketball, track and field, floorball and soccer.
Herder thanked everyone involved in making the games possible, noting the overall goal is inclusion and empowerment.
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“Let us continue to champion diversity, break down barriers and create a world where every individual is celebrated for their abilities,” he said.
Numerous fundraisers were held locally for the games, with organizers announcing Chatham-Kent as the host last year.
These were the first Special Olympics Ontario provincial championships in the municipality since 1997.
The efforts of Herder’s late father, Rob Herder, and the late Mike Currie, were also recognized, as the two police officers played significant roles in organizing the 1997 championships.
The Ottawa Police Service will host next year’s games, with a special changeover ceremony held at the end of Wednesday’s event.
Chatham-Kent Police Chief Gary Conn congratulated the athletes and acknowledged the support of volunteers, businesses and spectators.
“We set the bar high this year, but I am certain that next year, Chief (Eric) Stubbs and the Ottawa Police Service will take things to even a greater height,” he said.
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