WOLFVILLE, N.S. — The top athletic talent from across the province gathered in Wolfville on Friday evening for the opening ceremonies of the 2019 Special Olympics Nova Scotia Provincial Summer Games. Acadia University hosted the majority of the events including soccer, basketball, swimming, track and field, bocce, and gymnastics. The golfing event took place at the Ken Wo golf course and softball was held at Lockhart and Ryan Memorial Park in New Minas.
The opening ceremonies took place in the Andrew H. McCain Arena. The athletes were welcomed into the arena by cheering fans and a full band. Dinner was served to athletes and volunteers in the arena following the ceremonies.
Several events kicked off right afterwards and medal rounds began as early as Saturday morning. Events were free to attend all weekend to encourage more supporters to cheer and support the athletes. All medals had been handed out by Sunday afternoon.
Over 850 athletes participated in the weekend-long competition with upwards of 300 volunteers working to keep the wheels on the track. Teams included local regions Amherst, Annapolis, Cape Breton, Clare, Cobequid, Dartmouth, Eastern Highlands, Halifax, Kings, Lunenburg-Queens, Pictou, Sackville-Bedford, Shelburne and Yarmouth.
Athletes were keeping active between events whether it be exploring the town of Wolfville, enjoying food at Acadia’s meal hall or turning up at the athletes’ dance on Saturday night. It was a fun-filled weekend for athletes, volunteers, and spectators.
