Sara Eisinger
Smoky Mountain Times
The big top is coming to Swain County — not with lions and trapeze artists, but with cheers, high-fives and the determined strides of athletes from across the region.
Swain County Schools will be the site of the annual Special Olympics Spring Games on April 23, transforming the campus into a carnival-themed celebration of inclusion. This year’s theme, “Under the Big Top,” will bring a circus atmosphere to a day centered on athletes of all abilities.
“This is all about inclusion and making this the best day for students and adults with disabilities,” said organizer Lee Hyatt. “It’s a great opportunity for the community to come out and support our athletes.”
Delegations from Swain, Graham, Jackson, Macon, Cherokee and Clay counties are expected to attend. Organizers estimate between 120 and 150 athletes will participate, ranging in age from young children to seniors. Last year, one competitor was in their 80s.
Athletes ages eight and older will compete in traditional events, while children ages five to seven will take part in Young Athletes activities designed to build foundational skills. Events will include wheelchair races, assisted walking competitions, running races, long jump, tennis ball throw and softball throw.
The opening parade of athletes is scheduled for 9:45 a.m., with events beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the high school.
Swain County is in its second year of a two-year commitment to host the games. Hyatt said community support has been strong, with volunteers already secured and large crowds attending last year’s event.
Participants include students, high school graduates and residents of group homes — many of whom do not otherwise have opportunities to compete in organized sports.
“For a lot of these families, their children don’t get to play sports,” Hyatt said. “This gives them a chance to be part of a team, to compete and to be celebrated.”
With carnival décor, festive energy and a stadium full of supporters, organizers hope this year’s event will once again deliver what they say matters most: a day when every athlete is in the spotlight.