Close to 200 young athletes with physical, sensory or intellectual disabilities enjoyed and celebrated the spirit and the fun of athletic competition in the 5th annual Athletes in Motion (AIM) Games at Tamanawis Secondary.

The games included a wide variety of sports and activities, including many adapted events, from sledge hockey to wheelchair obstacle racing.  Students from 16 Surrey secondary schools and selected students from three district elementary schools joined invited competitors from Langley and Abbotsford school districts in the games.

AIM Games coordinator Deb Murin says the event is hosted by different schools each year because of the “positive vibe” and great experience for each school community.

"When the events are on, the [non-participating] kids come and see,” says Murin.  “It opens their minds."

More than 100 trained student volunteers from Tamanawis, Sullivan Heights, Frank Hurt and Johnston Heights secondary schools in Surrey, as well as from schools in Vancouver, donated their time to assist with the games.

Surrey district assistant superintendent Rick Fabbro says the games are about inclusivity and community.

"We want opportunities for every student to experience the benefits of sportsmanship, competition and fun,” says Fabbro.  “Most importantly, AIM provides opportunities for students to connect with community sports organizations that make AIM possible, hopefully developing a lifelong involvement in sports."

Several community organizations, including B.C. Wheelchair Sports Association, Surrey Parks and Recreation, B.C. Blind Sports and Recreations Association, SportAbility, Whalley Little League and others support the event.

The Tamanawis crowd watches the wheelchair obstable event at the AIM Games

Last Updated: May 21, 2009