Working in the news, it's not very often that we are able to lead our news broadcasts with good news.
Ever heard the saying, "If it bleeds, it leads." That's a little bit over the top, but for the most part-- true.
This week, the Special Olympics World Winter Games were held right here, in Boise! Hundreds of athletes from all across the world were here. I'm talking Qatar, Yemen, Afghanistan and even Gibraltar to name a few! It was incredible having all these athletes here! Every story we aired about these games this week, brought me to tears. They are so touching, and everyone who watches really gets to see what sportsmanship is all about.
The Opening Ceremonies were something else. A huge coming together of countries, and people... along with some wonderful performances... a great start to such an incredible week!
Feb. 7, 2009
As for memorable and eye opening events...
How about the team from Gibraltar that didn't have enough helmets for their entire team... The Canadian team stepped in, and gave them their old ones so that Gibraltar could compete!
Or how about the mother and daughter duo on the ice rink. One athlete began ice skating because the rink was within walking distance from her house... her mother saw how much she loved the sport-- and wanted it to try it too. Now, here they are, competing as a "Unified team" at the World Winter games.
Towns all over Idaho hosted events for these games... and the mountains served as an incredible backdrop in some of these stories. Take a look here at the "Torch Parade" down Dollar Mountain in Sun Valley, ID. After seeing this, I know I missed out on one heck of a celebration.
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There are Special Olympics competitions that happen in cities across the United States... they have both summer, and winter games, and I truly encourage EVERYONE to get out there and be a fan. It will truly change your life.
I leave you now with the news story I did back in Grand Forks, ND in 2005... which is what opened my eyes to these games.
**WARNING: It was one of my first news stories... don't judge it by quality. =)
Always,
