Special needs students from across the Hart School District will gather on the field at Valencia High School for the 2nd annual Hart Games 2011 Track and Field meet on Wednesday, March 23, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Approximately 285 students have been training and practicing and are expected to participate.  

The district-wide competition is sponsored by the Adapted Physical Education Department and the Special Olympics, with the goal of stimulating an interest in physical activity among special needs students and rewarding those who achieve. Students from La Mesa, Rancho Pico and Rio Norte junior high schools will be participating, as well as students from Golden Valley and Valencia high schools. The Valencia High School track team, which is hosting this year, is helping with equipment and has provided more than 40 volunteers to ensure the success of this event.  

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The event features an opening ceremonies and a ceremonial lap around the track. Running and field events start with the 4 x 100 relay and also include: 50 yard dash, 100 yard dash, 200 meter dash, running long jump, high jump, shot put and softball throw contests. Events will be under way simultaneously across the field with students competing for ribbons.  

“We are so proud of the athletes that are competing in this event,” said Patti Miller, Hart Games Director. “This event would not be so successful without the volunteers and sponsors that so generously donated both money and time to this program. We appreciate their support.”  

Adaptive PE Chair, Cheri Kecxon-Crouse said she appreciates directors Patti Miller and Steven Pinkston, the amazing support of the volunteers, parents and district staff.