Coshocton County Board of DD hosts 32nd annual track day

The 32nd Coshocton County Board of Developmental Disabilities Track and Field Day for area adults was held March 24 at Kids America. Almost 70 adults who are served by the CCBDD participated in the event.

Toby Collins, director of recreation, advocacy and Special Olympics, said 30 Key Club students, six Kiwanis members and six Junior Women’s Club members volunteered, along with Special Olympics athletes and their families.

The day began with Jalen B singing the national anthem, followed by the parade of athletes. Each group of participants competed in track activities, basketball, football toss and cornhole. There also was an area for everyone to join in fun games and get their face painted.

Collins said, “It’s a day just for our athletes. They are so proud of their ribbons, and it helps build their self-confidence. Plus, they have a great time showing off their ribbons and socializing with their friends and everyone else they walk by.”

Shanya said she was very glad she came. She liked basketball the most.

“I had lots of fun. I like getting out of my comfort zone,” she said.

Tyler said his favorite was doing cornhole, playing basketball and throwing the football.

"I like the people I work with at Midwest, and my favorite is Mug Root Beer,” he said.

Brothers Zach and Kody competed against each other in several events. Zach said he liked cornhole the best.

“No, basketball — because he beat me,” he said.

Kody laughed and said his favorite part of the day was whipping his brother in basketball. “And I like running.”

CCBDD Superintendent Steve Oster said, “Today is about giving adults the opportunity to compete, be recognized and truly enjoy the moment. You can see it in their faces — the pride, the confidence and the joy celebrating every event. We are incredibly grateful to Toby Collins, Macy Patterson, the Key Club, the Kiwanis Club, the Junior Women’s Club, and all the volunteers and day programs who came together to make this a wonderful day for everyone.”

Collins said, “I would love to thank all our amazing volunteers plus the staff and families that make it possible for our adults and students to attend their day.”