More than 60 employees of Westgate Resorts turned out to volunteer for the Special Olympics 2012 Florida Summer Games held May 18-19 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports® complex at Walt Disney World Resort.
Westgate Resorts Foundation was also a proud Presenting Sponsor for the Games' Track & Field events. The Special Olympics Florida Summer Games attracted more than 1,500 athletes and nearly 700 coaches and delegates with athletes competing in bocce, cycling, soccer, tennis and volleyball as well as track & field.
"Westgate is proud to be a long-time and continued supporter of FloridaSpecial Olympics," said the company's Chief Operating Officer, Mark Waltrip. "Our team members gain so much when they experience the teamwork, dedication and pure joy of working with these amazing Special Olympic athletes."
To compete in the State Championship events, athletes and teams must have completed eight weeks of training and compete at county and area level competitions. The two-day event also included special Opening and Closing Ceremonies at Champions Stadium plus a Victory Dance celebration.
While the Games are the highlight of the year for Special Olympics, the program is committed to empowering people with intellectual disabilities on and off the playing field. By working to remove obstacles, change attitudes and open minds, Special Olympics provides opportunities for its athletes to demonstrate courage, experience joy and share their gifts, skills and friendship with the world.
Founded in 1972, Special Olympics Florida helps athletes develop physically, socially and psychologically. The positive experiences provided help build confidence and self image which carry over into all aspects of the athletes' lives.
For more information about Special Olympics Florida, please visit www.sofl.org.