Community gathers for Special Olympics track and field meet in Moss Point

The city of Moss Point hosted the area 12 Special Olympics track and field meets.

The Special Olympics gives children and adults with intellectual disabilities a place to participate in sports and athletic competitions.

It was a day full of horns blaring, medals, and smiles at the Jerry Alexander stadium in Moss Point.

Each year, the Special Olympics serves as a welcoming place for these individuals.

“I mean, they’re athletes,” said Joana Touati, director of the area 12 Special Olympics. “They enjoy competing against each other. They’ve become friends, many of them, over the years doing different activities together. So, to just come and be together and be able to compete and win medals. They’re very excited, and we’re excited for them.”

This marks Moss Point’s first time hosting, as well as, the first track and field meet since before 2020.

“The city as a whole has embraced the ability to be hosts,” said Donna Joseph, Moss Point Parks and Recreation director. “The major had as a part of his campaign, a concept to make sure that all citizens of all abilities could be served. And this is just the first of many events to come.”

It’s going to take a lot more training to keep up with these athletes, but WXXV was able to catch them off the track and get their reaction to the day.

“I run good,” Hannah said, an East Central High School student, “I’m a star!”

Another student, Lauren, said she felt “excited” about the day.

Will showed off his first-place ribbons while telling us how it felt to win, “I got this one from I think the rocket throw, and this one hear from the tennis throw. I did good. I threw it in the air and I felt like a baseball player.”

Teachers have seen a boost in students’ confidence because of the Special Olympics.

“It’s been really nice,” said Victoria Brockway, assistant teacher for East Central High School life skills. “I think some of our students that I wouldn’t have guessed would be so competitive, have had the best time. So, it’s been a lot of fun to see them be so proud of themselves and hear people cheer them on.

Moss Point plans to initiate “a day at the req”, where all citizens can come together for a day of activities. Stay tuned to WXXV for updates in the future.