Kolb Welcomes Athletes, Families, Sponsors And Spectators To Special Olympics New York "2009 Upstate Fall Classic"

photo photo

Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,I,C-Canandaigua) is pictured welcoming athletes, families, sponsors and spectators to the Special Olympics New York "2009 Upstate Fall Classic", which was recently held at Unity Health Systems Total Sports Experience in Rochester. Kolb also led the opening parade of athletes competing at the event.

In his remarks, Kolb saluted the participants' dedication to their respective sports, along with their tremendous athletic skill. Kolb also offered words of remembrance in memory of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder and heart-and-soul of the Special Olympics.

Kolb recognized the athletes' families and friends, along with the official sponsors of the 2009 Upstate Fall Classic, which included Unity Health Total Sports Experience, Wegmans, Paychex, Bass Pro Shops, Aarons, Bill Grays and Law Enforcement Torch Run Members.

Approximately 500 spectators attended the competition, cheering the athletes on to victory and achieving their personal best. In all, 420 athletes competed in soccer and softball at the Special Olympics New York 2009 Upstate Fall Classic.

Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the Special Olympics provides people with intellectual disabilities continuing opportunities to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship. Through year-round sports training and athletic competition and other related programming for more than 2.5 million children and adults with intellectual disabilities in more than 180 countries, the Special Olympics created a model community that celebrates people's diverse gifts. The mission of the Special Olympics and its positive, empowering impact is embodied in its official oath: "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt."

Back