Imagine being able to compete in several events that include track and field and long jumps while getting support from coaches, family, friends and a cheering crowd in the stands.

The Special Olympics Spring Games will kick off at 10 a.m. Friday at the Rocky Mount Athletic Stadium. The first whistle will be blown at 10:20 a.m. as the first game makes its mark.

The games include events like track and field, the 50-meter dash, 100-meter dash, long jump, tennis ball throw and a wheelchair race in a 50-meter dash and a 100-meter dash. The average age that is allowed to participate in the Spring games are from 8 years old and above.

Different group homes, individuals who qualify and school systems from the Nash County area have the opportunity to participate in the Special Olympics.

The Special Olympics allows participates to feel good about themselves and to be able to socialize with different people, event organizers said.

The Olympics also is a place where people are able to grow and shine in the areas that they compete in, said John Battle, coordinator of the Rocky Mount Special Olympics Spring Games.

"Participants in the Special Olympics have the opportunity to compete with others and have the opportunity to be number one," Battle said.

"Participants also want to have their special moment, just like everyone else when growing up, and win that medal."

The events are free, and the community has the opportunity to watch and support the participants who are entered in the games. The events end at 1:30 p.m., and it is a one-day event.

"There is a process-

committee that nominates participants to the state summer Special Olympics that are held in Raleigh that are from June 6-8," Battle said.

Volunteers who would like to help out with the Special Olympics can contact Battle at 972-1155.