Second Special Olympics

A while back I attended the second Special Olympics, which was held at Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center. I was really excited because I had had so much fun at the last Special Olympics. I came with a bunch of girls from my school, Palm Beach Atlantic University. They helped with the arts, crafts, and games for the riders when they weren’t competing. I helped with the leading and side-walking as per my usual routine. It was a beautiful, sunny day, and I was looking forward to experiencing the Special Olympics at Vinceremos since they have a huge, covered arena now. It was everything that I expected it to be and more.

When I arrived, there was a little bit of waiting time before the competition began. While most people watched the opening ceremony, I helped to make sure that the riders, who were to ride first, were ready. I sat and talked with them and encouraged them about the competition ahead. We pet Miss Kitty, chatted, and tried to relax. Intermittently, I ran back and forth between the mounting platform and the waiting area to find out if it was time for the riders to mount. We were all excited and impatient, and there were a few false alarms, but then finally, it was time!

I helped by holding the horses and directing the riders where to go. I basically just helped out however the instructors needed me to. All of the riders looked so posh in their dressy clothes. After helping riders to mount, I was supposed to help lead one of the horses, but I don’t have very much experience with that so I helped by side-walking instead.

I spent the rest of the Special Olympics running to and fro to side-walk with different riders. It was a lot of fun. I loved being around the horses, but I especially loved seeing riders that I had gotten to know competing with such success and skill. The covered arena was perfect for the competition. I side-walked with different riders in both sides of the arena. The arena had been divided into two types of competitions, obstacle course and stylistic performance. I enjoyed the obstacle course the most. The poles, mailbox, and hacky sacks were colorful and fun, and the judges were encouraging.

It was such a great opportunity to help these riders by side-walking with them and encouraging them. Then I stood by their side when they received their ribbons. There were so many ribbons! Everyone was a winner, and I got to be there and see that. I cheered for them and held their ribbons if they needed me to. It was great to just be there and support them in their triumph after all their hard work. It was a great day.