Some very special athletes will take to the field Saturday when the Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department host the Area Nine Special Olympics Track and Field Meet.
These individuals with mental retardation work hard year round to prepare for these competitions -- and everyone comes away a winner.
Special athletes will compete from Fredericktown, Perryville, Sikeston, New Madrid, Caruthersville, Lilbourn, Hayti, Perryville, Cape Girardeau, Marble Hill and Fruitland.
Another important part of the day are the dedicated volunteers who oversee the events, and there's still time to sign up. These athletes are not only special -- they're generous with smiles and hugs.
Ceremonies open at 10 at the Abe Stuber Track Complex on the Southeast Missouri State University campus.
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