By Brian T. Dessart
This year the games are scheduled for April 12, beginning at 11 a.m.
The annual event, which was organized by Patrick's brother, Alan, is in the memory of a brave young boy who died in 1997 at the age of five from complications related to Down Syndrome.
Since its inception, the PXO Games have raised $36,000 for the Associated School for Children with Down Syndrome (ACDS), which Patrick attended. Last year's event cashed in as a $10,000 fundraiser. All funds benefit ACDS directly and are used for supplies such as computers, new technology and desks. Some of the money has been used for rebuilding its computer lab.
"Besides Patrick being my brother, this event holds a special place in my heart because its nice to help a school like ACDS," Alan said. "They provide a unbelievable service and do great things for kids with Down Syndrome that other schools can't. It would be great to celebrate our fifth year with a record-setting amount of donations to help ACDS continue to thrive as the No. 1 school for children with Down Syndrome."
This year's event will also feature a Hanna Montana karaoke concert at 1 p.m. and a single-shot contest, which will give a participant an opportunity at winning $10,000. The PXO Games will be followed by a reception at the Beach House in Long Beach from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.
Anyone who cannot attend the PXO Games but would still like to contribute a tax-deductible donation can send a check to: The Patrick Xavier Fund, c/o the Owens Family, 45 Seawane Rd., East Rockaway, NY 11518. Any questions can be referred to Alan Owens, (845) 323-9449. "It's nice to have the support from the school and community that I grew up in," said Alan, who graduated from East Rockaway High School in 2000. "It's great to see everybody coming together as one for such a great cause."
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