Cool weather and rain put the event’s location in doubt for months as school officials raced to lay down the running track.
Previous to the last two years, the event had always been held on Middletown High School’s old track & field stadium but an $86 million construction project on the campus had moved it to the district’s Barnitz Stadium.
“The Middie Olympics is a great event for our population of students identified with special needs and disabilities, and their families. This non-competitive event is a celebration of abilities and comradeship,” said Rob Hamann, Highview 6th Grade assistant principal and event organizer.
“With the completion of the new track and field facility at Middletown High School, our annual event will move to the new location. The (new) running track will enhance the experience for all students and especially students who have assistive technology for ambulatory needs,” said Hamann.
Surrounding the event, which was sponsored by nearly three dozen local businesses, restaurants, city departments, community organizations and service groups — are games, activities, information tables to entertain and assist families and care-givers of the youngsters.
The event is open to the public at no cost and will run from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the new stadium at 601 North Breiel Ave.
Those attending are advised to be there at the start to see a skydiving team parachute on to the new, artificial turf field to open the event.
Middletown Schools Spokeswoman Elizabeth Beadle said “we are so excited to finally open the brand new track and field complex to our students and community.”
“The completed track and field on Middletown’s 7-12 grade campus is such a great finishing touch for the entire building project. Not only does the field give our students access to a state-of-the-art practice and gym facility, but it also gives our community a place for youth sports, club leagues, and a wonderful place to exercise,” said Beadle.
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