Orange County

Young Athletes Festival celebrates Special Olympics’ impact on health and development

ORLANDO, Fla. — Catalina Elementary School hosted an event Thursday celebrating young athletes who are taking part in this year’s Special Olympics USA Games.

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More than 120 students took part in the Young Athletes Festival.

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It included games, sports and skill-building activities.

Photos: Young Athletes Festival celebrates Special Olympics’ impact on health and development

Teachers, caregivers, and others were all there to cheer on the athletes.

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This event was a special opportunity for young kids who don’t usually get to have these experiences.

“These children usually don’t get the opportunity to be involved in these sports programs,” said Meredith Narayanan, who was part of the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games. “It’s really good for their parent and caregiver to see what Special Olympics offers.”

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Young Athletes is an early childhood play program.

Their goal is to bring together students with and without disabilities through sports.

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