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KSO athletes, volunteers thrive rain or shine

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Sara Csurilla
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  More than 5,000 special-needs athletes, artists, volunteers and supporters showed up to the Riser Fitness Center on Kadena Air Base Nov. 5 for the 12th annual Kadena Special Olympics.

Although the rainy weather stalled the opening ceremonies and some of the events, athletes and service members alike packed into the gym to listen as the 18th Wing commander said a few words.

"Indeed, 12 years of Kadena Special Olympics have brought us together as a family -- a family of volunteers, athletes, artists and sponsors who care for each other and do what is best for our communities ... celebrating the successes and achievements of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities," said Brig. Gen. Matthew Molloy, 18th Wing commander. "It is also a great opportunity for American service members and their families to appreciate the Okinawan culture and to interact, one-on-one, creating friendships that will last a lifetime."

Once the opening ceremony came to a close and Lt. Gen. Burton M. Field, U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force commander, spoke a few words of encouragement, everyone poured onto the field to start the events.

Before events began, athletes were paired with a "hugger." Huggers were U.S. service members who volunteered to help and encourage special-needs Okinawan and American adult and child athletes as they participated in different events.

Events included track events, wheelchair events, hockey, basketball and many more. There was also an art exhibition featuring nearly 400 special-needs artists held inside the gym.

"I have been having so much fun," said Hitoshi Neho, an adult athlete who took second place in softball and the 50-meter dash event. "The Americans have been helping me out a lot and have been very kind to me."

Hitoshi was helped by an Airman from the 18th Maintenance Operations Squadron who spent all day with him, cheering him on at events, high-fiving him as he succeeded and helping and encouraging him whenever needed.

"[As a hugger] I have been leading one of the athletes around to the different events he participates in," said Airman 1st Class Tamara Holden, Hitoshi's hugger, as she attentively watched after him as he interacted with other athletes playing basketball. "I've been with Hitoshi all day and I've been having a great day! It's definitely a new experience too."

As the athletes moved from event to event, the rain continued to pour, but it was apparent in every athlete, their spirit did not fade.

"The spirit of Special Olympics is foremost one of joy, but also courage, pride, and respect," said Molloy. "It is the affirmation of the precious, intrinsic value of the human spirit of every single person on the planet, regardless of their physical or mental circumstances. It is also a spirit of acceptance that transcends social and political boundaries ... it is a spirit that inspires us all."