The annual Special Olympics Spring Games Track and Field Competition will be held Sunday, April 23 at Radford University’s Cupp Stadium. Nearly 150 Special Olympics athletes from across Southwestern Virginia have been training for the event since February.

Opening Ceremonies, which will begin at 12:30 p.m., will include the traditional parade of athletes. Neesey Payne, WDBJ 7’s morning anchor, will serve as master of ceremonies and Radford University’s new Men’s Soccer Coach, Bryheem Hancock, will provide welcoming comments.

Track and field events including, throwing and jumping events, along with running events ranging from 50 meters to 3000 meters, will follow the torch lighting ceremony.

Representatives of local law enforcement, including Radford City and Christiansburg Police, as well as, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department, will accompany athletes during the torch lighting ceremony. Events should conclude around 4:30 p.m.

Radford University has hosted this event since 2005; soon after the stadium was completed. “Cupp Stadium is an ideal facility for Special Olympics Track and Field. The Athletic Department and varsity team members really make the experience special for our track athletes,” said BJ Norris coordinator and parent of two competitors. “Radford University and Virginia Tech students join together with the New River Valley community to celebrate achievements. The community will witness firsthand the spirit of competition and excellence of Special Olympics sports.”

— Staff reports