‘It’s their time to shine’: Hundreds of athletes competing in Special Olympics event in Bethlehem | Bethelehm Area

BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Hundreds of athletes will be taking the track for a competition that’s all about determination, inclusion and community.

69 News Reporter Sydney Kay was in Bethlehem with a look into the Special Olympics event happening Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at BASD Stadium right next to Liberty High School.

Amanda Sechrist with Team Northampton Special Olympics PA said about 657 athletes are taking part in the Athletics South event Thursday. 

Students from elementary through high school in Bethlehem Area School District, Easton Area School District, and the Saucon Valley School District will be showing off their stuff.

Athletes also participated in an event in the Poconos Monday, and will be showing off their athletic abilities in Nazareth next Tuesday.

Sechrist said students at Thursday’s event get to pick which three events they think they are best at to show off to their family and friends. Events include a javelin throw, a softball throw, the long jump, and a variety of running races.

Wheelchair races, as well as assisted races where students can use their walkers if they need to, are also featured at the competition.

Sechrist said the event is great for the community to see, because volunteers come out from all the school districts. The student athletes build friendships while they are out there competing, she said.

Event Coordinator Glenn Watchorn said the softball throw takes up the entire football field. A shotput event is available for more advanced athletes, he said.

He said students look forward to the event all year long.

Crayola donates “a ton of supplies” for those who want to partake in arts and crafts at the event.

Representatives from organizations such as the Bethlehem Health Bureau and St. Luke’s University Health Network interact with the athletes.

Eric Stackhouse, an athlete with Team Liberty Special Olympics, said he’ll be participating in the 50-meter dash, the softball throw, and the long jump. Out of the three, he said 50-meter dash is his favorite, since he won first place in it before.

Liberty High School life skills teacher Shelley Houck said the event is an opportunity for the athletes to show everyone what they’ve worked so hard to prepare for.

“It’s their time to shine,” she said.

“Always do your best and put your best effort into it, no matter what,” Stackhouse said.

What is he most looking forward to?

“Just having fun,” he said.