FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

COMMUNITY CELEBRATES 27 YEARS OF SPECIAL GAMES FOR LOS ANGELES ADULTS AND CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES AT LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY

March 1, 2004 -- Nearly a thousand people gathered at Loyola Marymount University this weekend to celebrate The 27th Annual Special Games for area adults and children with physical and mental disabilities.

Athletes partook in events such as basketball, bowling, art and crafts, and dancing. Each athlete also received a T-shirt and medal commemorating their participation during a closing medal ceremony.

Established in 1977 with less than 90 athletes, the event was originally affiliated with the Special Olympics. In 1978 the LMU event, renamed the Special Games, broke away from the national organization to also include those with physical needs, in addition to those with mental disabilities. Since that time, the Special Games has grown to include more than 40 team leaders, over 300 athletes, 300 student coaches and nearly 150 volunteers annually. Participation is free and offers the disabled the opportunity to participate in non-competitive events in a fun-filled and energetic environment. The event is funded exclusively by outside donations.

In-N-Out burger sponsored a free lunch for the entire group.

For more information, please call 310.338.2728.

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