The return of the National Special Olympic Games to the sporting calendar for the special people of St Vincent and the Grenadines has surpassed the expectations of many, including national director of Special Olympics Janice Mc Master.{{more}}

“Just knowing that this day has finally come has me in a fit of jubilation. I am smiling now, not because everything went as planned, but because our athletes are happy that they were given the opportunity to display their skills, talent and courage”, Mc Master told SEARCHLIGHT.

“Everyone was winner”, Mc Master added.

She also noted that many took seriously the athlete’s oath, which reads: “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt”.

Mc Master was especially pleased with widespread participation, even though the games had not been held since 2003.

“I am also pleased that we had approximately 125 athletes, drawn from various geographical areas: Bequia, Georgetown, Chateaubelair, Kingstown as well as other parts of the mainland”, Mc Master said with satisfaction.

Setting her sights beyond the shores of St Vincent and the Grenadines, Mc Master projected : “…I can assure you that this is just the start of things to come…We are going all the way to the 2015 Special Olympics World Games and beyond.”

Mc Master thanked all those who made the two days at the Victoria Park, two days of an unforgettable experience.

The Games began last Friday afternoon with an official opening ceremony, with Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne, the patron of the Games, declaring the games open.

The opening ceremony was preceded by the Law Enforcement Torch Run and was followed by two five-a-side football matches.

Saturday’s events included track and field, featuring races over various distances for all age groups and both sexes.

There was also bocce, which saw heavy participation from the top brass of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force.(RT)