Blustery weather didn’t stop Bainbridge High School from hosting a Special Olympics track and field event Thursday, with students from both Decatur and surrounding counties competing.

Competing alongside Decatur County students for the first time were students from Early and Seminole counties.

The students, who are enrolled in special education programs at area schools, began the day riding in school buses that travelled along U.S. Highway 84 East, escorted by police cars with flashing lights and sirens.

Their arrival at the BHS track was welcomed by the clapping and cheering of dozens of BHS students, who were serving as volunteers with the competition. Selected members from the BHS Marching Band performed music as the students paraded on the track, carrying their schools’ banners.

The Special Olympics torch was carried onto the BHS track by Bainbridge Public Safety Director Eric Miller, accompanied by several local law enforcement officers from BPS, the Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia State Patrol.

After the Pledge of Allegiance, the National Anthem and the recitation of the Special Olympics motto, the students were ready to compete.

Events included the 100-meter dash, a softball toss, a beanbag toss, a frisbee throw and the long jump. All participants received ribbons and certificates for their efforts.

Special Olympics organizing committee member Jim Beck said he would like to thank Bainbridge State College and the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office for their partnership with the event.

The Special Olympics motto is, “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”