Team Kentucky arrived in Ames, Iowa, today to represent the Commonwealth at the 2006 Special Olympics USA National Games. The team made the trip from Louisville to Des Moines as part of the Citation Special Olympics airlift aboard 10 donated corporate jets from around the country. From Des Mones, Team Kentucky bused into Ames. The Citation Airlift included more than 230 donated jets which shuttled more than 1,800 athletes to the Games.
Team Kentucky didn't depart, however, until after a rousing sendoff from family and friends and a couple of Special Guests. After Special Olympics Kentucky president and CEO Dave Kerchner made some opening remarks, he introduced SOKY BOard member Juli Hart of Special Olympics Kentucky Official Partner Texas Roadhouse. Hart gave a stirring speech encouraging all the athletes of Team Kentucky to do their best and enjoy their trip.
Hart was followed by coaching legend and longtime Special Olympics supporter Denny Crum. Crum passed along some wisdom from his even more legendary basketball coach John Wooden, telling the athletes "you took ." He also reminded the athletes that winning is a team effort and to depend on their teammates.
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Team Kentucky gathered for a photo before taking to the sky on their way to Ames. |
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Once in Ames, Saturday was a day to get acquainted with the Iowa State University campus where all of the teams are staying. Athletes spent much of their time in Olympic Town and attended a welcome dance held after dinner.
See photos from the departure from Louisville and arrival in Ames.
The Games officially open with a star-studded Opening Ceremonies at 7:30 pm (CDT) on Sunday, July 2 that will be held at Hilton Coliseum on the Iowa State University campus and hosted by Iowa native Tom Arnold. Competitions begin on July 3 and run through July 7. The Games conclude back where they started with a Closing Ceremony at Hilton Coliseum at 7:30 pm (CDT) on July 7.
Prior to Opening Ceremonies on Sunday, most of the Team Kentucky athletes will be preparing for their competitions with practice sessions. Competition won't get underway until Monday. Matt Minning (Taylor Mill) will have the first medal opportunity for Team Kentucky when he competes in the 10,000-meter run final early Monday morning.
The 2006 Special Olympics USA National Games will draw more than 3,000 athletes, 2,000 coaches, 8,000 volunteers and 10,000 family members and spectators for a tremendous week of competition and much more. A Festival Village will be available throughout the Games, which will provide activities, food and Healthy Athletes screenings. There will also be several events associated with the National Games, including a youth forum, a research symposium and a Congressional field hearing.
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