HOPE – A large contingent of athletes will represent Rainbow of Challenges (ROC) in the annual Special Olympics area competition on Saturday, April 23.

Individuals from Rainbow Industries, ROC Enterprises, and Rainbow Junction will join their sister site of Prescott/Nevada County Special Services, and other area Special Olympics athletes for the competition at the Hope High School track field with events beginning at approximately 9:00 a.m.

It is a free event and the public is encouraged to bring a lawn chair and cheer on these athletes.

Participation in this event would not be possible without the dedicated ROC/PNC staff and numerous volunteers from the area that will accompany the athletes, ensuring safe and memorable games.

In 1968, the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation created Special Olympics and it has since become the world’s largest program of athletic competition for children and adults with disabilities.

Arkansas held its first Summer Games in 1970 attracting 283 athletes competing in a variety of track and field events. It has now grown to a program for athletes wanting to train and compete in athletics, aquatics, softball, volleyball, power lifting, bocce, and cycling. Other Special Olympics Arkansas sports include basketball, bowling, figure skating, and gymnastics.

ROC/PNC administers a wide array of services for persons who have developmental disabilities in Southwest Arkansas. Emphasis is placed on services that help each person achieve the highest degree of personal independence. ROC/PNC is committed to implementing a safer, healthier, happier, and more independent lifestyle for individuals having special needs.

For more information, please contact Rainbow of Challenges at 870-777-4501.