The Special Olympics Beaufort/Hyde Program met at Washington High School’s Wagner Field on Wednesday for its annual spring games.

Event Coordinator Sara Boykin-Clark, who took the reigns from former coordinator, Phyllis Hendrickson, in 2012, was pleased with the turnout, having approximately 175 competitors and 200 volunteers.

The games kicked off with the presentation of the both the state and American flags by Washington High School JROTC. Sommer Scott, a 13-year old volunteer, sang the National Anthem a cappella.

NC Highway Patrol Sgt. Brandon Craft and N.C. Highway Patrol Trooper Laura Peele, accompanied by five participants of the games led the torch run. Darren Walker, the youth pastor at First Free Will Baptist Church in Washington, gave the invocation.

Boykin-Clark said that several events brought area competitors together, including a tennis ball throw, softball throw, 50-meter dash, standing long jump, running long jump, a walking race and a wheelchair race. Competitors were grouped in levels, based on their capabilities. Each level had its own color. The event also featured Olympic Town, an area in which competitors can have play games and win prizes.

According to Boykin-Clark, the event was made possible through community involvement, fundraising and volunteering.

“We volunteer,” said Boykin-Clark. “This whole organization is volunteer-based. The next county over, they’re paid to do what we do. What we do throughout the summer and the rest of the year is through the goodness of our hearts.”

River Trace Nursing and Rehabilitation Center of Washington donated a team of volunteers and $100, Pizza Inn donated pizzas to be sold for a fundraiser and the ARC of Beaufort County donated their time, providing about 400 lunches for participants and volunteers.

According to Boykin-Clark, there are several events scheduled this year for the organization, including a car wash in June at Hardees on John Small Avenue in Washington and the annual Summer Games at the N.C. State University campus set for May 30 to June 1.

Boykin-Clark said the organization is in need of volunteers, new board members, coaches, fundraisers, event planners and bus drivers.

“We are looking for anyone who has a caring heart with a love to help others in need,” Boykin-Clark said. “Volunteers can help as much or as little as they are able. It will be the best volunteer time you have experienced and completely rewarding.”

For more information about becoming a part of the Beaufort/Hyde Special Olympics, either as an athlete or a volunteer, call Sara Boykin-Clark at 252-945-7344 or email at twns2jandj@yahoo.com.