Kadena Special Olympics set to kick off this weekend

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Rey Ramon
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  The 10th Annual Kadena Special Olympics, a sporting event dedicated to enriching the lives of special needs individuals, is set to take place from 9:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Kadena's Risner Fitness Complex.

Approximately 850 athletes are expected to participate in a variety of events, to include 200 and 300 meter races, tennis matches and basketball games. Artwork created by 490 special needs artists will be on display at the Risner Gym throughout the day.

"It seems incredible that this program has gained international attention in only a decade," said Mr. Chip Steitz, a senior adviser to the KSO Committee.

Mr. Steitz added that the KSO's success is due to the young service members from the Air Force, Marine Corps, Army and Navy who volunteer on game day and throughout the year, putting in long hours to create a positive, empowering experience for the athletes.

"This event is all about the athletes," said Matt Rossoni, Torch Run and fundraiser coordinator. "The feeling of giving back and expecting nothing in return, but receiving such a feeling of satisfaction and fulfillment - it can't be put into words."

Organizers anticipate that roughly 5,000 people will attend Saturday's festivities. This number includes 2,000 American volunteers and 350 interpreters, along with senior officials from the Government of Japan, Okinawa Prefectural Government, local communities and the U.S. military.

Prior to the opening ceremony, military policemen from all four services will arrive at Kadena carrying the "Flame of Hope" torch. They will assemble in formation and carry the torch from the 18th Security Forces Squadron to the Risner Gym, where the 10th Anniversary Kadena Special Olympics will officially begin.

People are encouraged to attend the event and cheer on the athletes. Those looking to locomote about the base on Saturday are to be advised that there will be limited traffic flow in and around the Risner Fitness Complex. For details about road closures and detours, please visit www.kadena.af.mil.