Clint Ingram, Jeremy Mincey and Mkristo Bruce of the Jacksonville Jaguars will serve as emcees for the opening ceremonies of the 2009 Duval County Special Olympic Games on Saturday, February 28 at The Bolles School. The event runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Ingram, Mincey and Bruce will join members of the ROAR to sign autographs and provide support for the participants during the games from 9:00 am to 10:00 am.
Special Olympics was created and developed to give individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to train and compete in sports activities. Athletes have the opportunity to participate in eight weeks of training conducted by talented volunteers and coaches prior to competition dates. Local competition and training occurs throughout the year, and qualifying athletes and teams advance to state level competition and have the opportunity to advance to national and international competition. Special Olympics Duval is a not-for-profit organization. Families and athletes are not charged a fee to participate. This is made possible through individual and corporate contributions, grants, and special events.
The athletes will participate in multiple events on Saturday, including standing long jump and running long jump, 50-meter run and walk, shot put, soccer, tennis and softball throw, wheelchair race and 4x100 relay.
