All about their abilities in District 13

Eight student athletes from Valley Stream District 13 participated in the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged last week. The children took part in a variety of competitions on June 3 at Mitchel Field.

Events included the Club Throw, Distance Kick, Precision Throw and Discus. A few of the athletes also ran in the 100-meter long distance race and the 40-meter sprint.

In between events, the children got to participate in some fun games including bowling, miniature golf and a football throw. Each athlete was paired with a student buddy as well as a chaperone. This was the second year that District 13 has participated in the games.

The Empire State Games were initially canceled for 2011 because of a lack of state funding, however Nassau County struck a deal to continue hosting the competition for physically challenged athletes. The event has been held in the county for 26 years.

District 13 students will receive their medals at the June Board of Education meeting.