Athletics

With athletes representing over 140 countries throughout the world, Athletics is Special Olympics' most popular sport. Athletics events combine both running and track and field competitions.

Special Olympics Athletics events range from the 100 metre dash to the marathon, from hurdles and high jump to the shot put, long jump and relays. For athletes of lower levels of ability there are walking events and throwing events, and for physically impaired athletes, wheelchair events and motorised events.

At the 1995 World Summer Games, over 1,300 athletes from countries around the world competed in Athletics. The marathon was contested for the first time producing a winning time of 2 hours, 59 minutes and 18 seconds.

This Track and Field unit can best be utilized to refine and improve the basic movements of running, jumping and throwing. Running develops endurance, agility and speed while field events develop hand-eye coordination, agility and strength. Participation in track and field events will also aid in the development of such desirable qualities as sociability, sportsmanship, initiative and self-confidence.

Because of the variety of events track offers, individuals of all ages and ability levels can find one event in which they may succeed or even excel. Needing only a pair of running shoes and a warm-up suit, an individual can successfully practice and compete in most track and field events.

Through track and field, a student can have new experiences, make decisions and acquire self-discipline. Track is a sport where success is solely the responsibility of the athlete himself, how hard and how often he practices. The skills acquired through participation in track and field events are skills that can be maintained throughout a person's life. The improvement of one's strenght and cardiovascular function are certainly worthwhile objectives for student participation.

For more information contact the SOV State office on 03 9275 6922 or e-mail info@specialolympicsvic.org.au

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