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Bergmann Center in Poplar Grove hosts Special Olympics Equestrian event
By Anne Eickstadt
ANNE EICKSTADT PHOTO Belvidere Republican
The smile says it all as Yamada Ayize of Evanston is awarded a medal in Equitation during the Special Olympics competition on Saturday, Oct. 20. It was his first time participating in the games.
Special Olympics Illinois provides year-round sports training for children aged eight and above and adults with intellectual disabilities. Through programming in sports, health, education, and community building, Special Olympics Illinois is transforming the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.
At Bravehearts’ Bergmann Center in Poplar Grove, Special Olympics athletes were able to register to compete in Dressage, English Equitation, Showmanship, or Stock Seat Equitation.
Harlem High School in Machesney Park hosted Special Olympics Illinois’ Volleyball tournament over the weekend. The school was also the location for the opening ceremonies for all the events on Friday evening, Oct. 19 and the Fall Games Dance on Saturday night Oct. 20.
At the Bergmann Center, Nate Henry, Director of State Championships, said, “We have 90 to100 contestants this weekend and lots of dedicated coaches and volunteers. At lunch today, we will be giving out awards for Rider of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year.
“We have many different classes with different patterns for the contestants to choose from. They will be judged on their work with the horses during the pattern. We hope to do 39 of the classes today and 20 tomorrow if everything goes to plan. We do have a timetable for the events because we are having a dance tonight. All the athletes love this and they love their dance.
For complete article, pick up the Oct. 25 Belvidere Republican.
