JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
The athletic spirit was alive at the Andrews Youth Center as the children ran, kicked and swam their way to victory at the first Olympic Day celebration here June 22.
Children ages five to 18 competed in events that ranged from 10-meter sprints to a kickball championship, all designed to encourage physical fitness and well-being in addition to Olympic ideals of fair play, perseverance, respect and sportsmanship.
"It's important that these kids learn to set goals and work hard to achieve them," said Terri Dendy, the guest of honor and former Olympian. "As long as they are dedicated and work hard, they can achieve any goal they want."
According to www.teamusa.org, Olympic Day is celebrated by thousands of people in more than 160 countries and commemorates the birth of the modern Olympic Games. The U.S. Olympic Committee works with the nearly 10,000 Olympians and Paralympians currently living in the United States, endeavoring to have an athlete present at each Olympic Day celebration to share their experiences and the role Olympic ideals have played in their lives.
"This is my way to give back," Mrs. Dendy said. "When I was young, somebody saw a talent in me and helped me develop it. I see some very talented kids here today. I loved seeing them doing the long jump, playing basketball, doing the obstacle course and running."