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Hearing-impaired track meet strong after 13 years

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Contributed by: Kristin Morin/YourHub.com on 5/13/2008

Alyssa Quick's blond ponytail whipped violently through the air. Judging by the wide smile on her face, it seemed Alyssa thought it was a good day for a potato sack race. As her fists held the large burlap sack up to her chin, Alyssa bound across the grass, her parents and spectators cheering and yelling encouragement from just beyond the finish line. Words and sounds that rang out loud and clear - to everyone but Alyssa.

Alyssa, a student at Ames Elementary in Littleton, was just one of 480 elementary students participating in the events at the 13th annual Deaf and Hard of Hearing Track & Field Day, held May 8, at Aurora Public Stadium. The event brought together approximately 650 deaf and hard of hearing preschool -12th grade students, each with varying levels of hearing loss, from across the Front Range and Denver metro areas.

"The reason we do this event is because it gives kids an opportunity to be around other kids and adults with hearing loss," said Robyn Thomas, event co-chair.

During track and field day, elementary students compete in events like the long jump, dash, potato sack race and beanbag toss. Despite the fact that a thunderstorm cut this year's event a little short, the students said they still had a good time.

"I think the most fun thing was the long jump," said Jesse Vukovinsky, from Rock Ridge Elementary in Castle Rock, his winning ribbons proudly displayed on his chest.

"And it's nice to get a break from school," Jesse added.

Deaf and hard of hearing middle and high school students don't get to compete in track and field day, but they do help run events, pass out snacks and paint faces. The older students can also work on community service projects benefiting the police K-9 units in the metro area, Hearing Dog International and a local food bank.

Keona Maki from Highlands Ranch High School used to participate as a track and field athlete when he was younger but now comes back as a volunteer.

"I really like to help people," Maki said.

Maki has also met a lot of people through at the event and enjoys coming back to see friends.

"I think this is a great idea because you get more socialization," Maki said. "We're like a family, like brothers and sisters."

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Submitted By: Joel Hunt

posted on 5/15/2008 @ 6:47:14 PM

Rated Story

Nice photos. Especially No. 1

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