Rider's Cup

Special Olympics Utah

Saturday, I spent all day in Park City at the National Ability Center volunteering with the Special Olympics.  This was the first year of the Rider's Cup so there were some logistical issues, but overall it was a total success!

I started the morning assisting with the Equestrian competitions which consisted of cheering for the participants and helping distribute the medals.  I love the participants!  They get so excited about completing the competition and receiving either a participation ribbon or a placement medal.  You can see the excitement in the video below...best to watch to participant in the middle.  He loved to dance, did it all day!

After the Equestrian events ended, we took a break for lunch, then off the Cycling events!  This was much more exciting as a volunteer.  There was more interaction with the participants and coaches.  

I had to mentally revert back to my days with the Events Management Team at BYU and the Splash n Dash races to get the stop watch timing routines working.  Again, since this was the first year for the Rider's Cup, the Volunteer Coordinator didn't have any good direction for how to time the races.  Times like these I am very grateful for my experiences at BYU!

I made a lot of friends today: Lisa, Tyler, Cody, Frank, Tyrell, and others.  I just wish I had a camera with me instead of just my phone. But at least I got one of the participants.  I truly admire their excitement and courage!

I think its safe to say I'll be back again next year!