West Bay Knights Show Their Athletic Spirit at the 2015 Rhode Island Special Olympics

West Bay Residential Services put on an excellent showing at the 47th annual Rhode Island Special Olympics, which was hosted by the University of Rhode Island from Friday, May 29 to Sunday, May 31st. Athletes from the West Bay Knights competed in the event, medaling in track and field events.

The opening ceremony was kicked off Friday, with the 30th annual Torch Race, a relay carrying the Flame of Hope from various points of origin within Rhode Island, culminating in the lighting of the cauldron at URI’s Meade Stadium to signal the start of the games.

As the games began, about 33 West Bay Knights took part in reciting the Special Olympic oath. “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt” This notion was proudly represented by the athletes who participated in the weekend games. A common remark of those who attended, including family, friends, and community supporters, was the sportsmanship and courage exhibited by the Knights.

In the crowd of nearly 4,000 supporters and family members, West Bay Knights athlete Michele Dixon was proud to see she had one of the biggest groups of supporters. One of her uncles flew in from Atlanta just to cheer her on!

West Bay Knights participated in a many of the events including the Softball Throw, 25 and 200 Meter Walk, 25 Meter Race and Turbojav, all hosted at the University’s Kingston, RI campus.

According to one of the West Bay Knight’s coaches, Aja Bairos, this year’s turn out continues to demonstrate how supportive the Rhode Island community is of individuals who are willing to push themselves to the limit and achieve great things.

“In high school, I participated in field hockey and track, so it’s fulfilling and fun to watch everyone accomplish so much. It makes the whole experience rewarding,” said Aja.

Events took place throughout Saturday and most of Sunday, including a social event. The yearly social is always a major highlight; Knights coach Sonia Ledo remarked, “it’s incredibly moving to watch family and friends interactions during the dance. It reminds me of why I love my job!” West Bay has immense appreciation for the 39 support staff that attended the event. West Bay would also like to send out a special “thank you” to Steve and Beth Upham, parents of Stacy Upham, one of the West Bay Knights athletes, for donating all of the snacks and refreshments for the weekend!

The West Bay athletes, family members and supporters had a great time cheering each other on at the various events, giving people extra confidence while competing. West Bay is honored to have such a wonderful representation of dedicated athletes that are part of the West Bay team.

West Bay Residential Services, Inc. is a private, non-profit agency providing services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1981. West Bay promotes independence and community inclusion through residential, shared living, employment and day services across the state of Rhode Island.

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