Special Olympics

This is submitted for [the_challenge] by =punkush - the challenge is Advertisement.

Special Olympics was founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver in 1968. At the first ever Special Olympics, she opened the games with these words:

"In ancient Rome, the gladiators went into the arena with these words on their lips: 'Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.'

"Today, all of you young athletes are in the arena. Many of you will win, but even more important, I know you will be brave, and bring credit to your parents and to your country. Let us begin the Olympics. Thank you."

I don't know about you, but it brings a tear to my eye.

Today, the Special Olympics Athlete's Oath is "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."


Now about the photograph. I had the honor of photographing the regional Special Olympics swim meet in New Orleans on April 23, 2005. Of all the photographs I took that day this is my favourite. It might not be technically wonderful (the light was terrible and I couldn't use flash), but these two young gentlemen should have their photographs in the dictionary next to the words sportsmanship. They and all the other athletes made the day one to remember.

I may not win the challenge - it's doubtful I would - but that really doesn't matter. It gave me an excuse to share this photograph and my little story. As far as I'm concerned, everybody that competed was a winner that day no matter what place they finished. That really is all that matters.

I can't wait until next year.

<edit> Final image - sorry for the repeat in your watch... updated the logo to regulation and located the correct font for the Athletes Oath. Also, properly sharpened now