Tri-Valley Special Olympics This Saturday

The 4th Annual Tri-Valley Special Olympics event returns to Crescenta Valley High School, Saturday, April 27.

Aound 250 athletes from 13 different areas, including the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley, Agoura, Glendale and Burbank areas, will compete in numerous events for the chance to be honored and recognized.

New regions will be represented this year from Kern County, Santa Barbara and South Bay, said Laura Mayo, regional director for the Special Olympics of Southern California.

Tri-Valley provides sports programs and competitions year-round for those with special needs. In addition to providing avenues to physical fitness, Tri-Valley also gives those with special needs avenues for social interaction and community involvement.

"Our athletes train and then they go to competitions to qualify for the summer games, so it's really important they have these competitions. From the summer games, they get to go on to the next level of competition," Mayo said.

Awards presentations will be conducted throughout the day.

Athletes will compete against others of the same gender, age and ability in events such as the 25, 100, 800-meter relay races, shot put and long jump.

Winners receive gold, silver, or bronze medals. Ribbons are also awarded.

The event begins at 9 a.m. at Susan Osborne field at Crescenta Valley High School, 2900 Community Avenue, in La Crescenta. Registration begins at 8 a.m. Admission is free. The event runs until 4 p.m.

For more information, call (818) 342-0017.