The 'Be the Best You Can Be' Athletics Carnival is in its 14th year in 2014. On Thursday 13 November 2014 more than 250 local students with a disability converged at the AIS Athletics Track for a day of athletics and activities.
This carnival, which now has reached record numbers, is a joint initiative between Snedden Hall & Gallop and ACTSport and is proudly supported by the Canberra Raiders, Supabarn, the AIS, ActewAGL and many other local businesses.
The carnival allows students from a number of Canberra primary schools, high schools and colleges to participate in a rotation of activities including sprints, vortex throw, long jump and shot put.
The students, who have either intellectual or physical disabilities, will compete in specially modified sporting activities at the event. The carnival is designed to be a fun and energetic day and is a highlight on the school calendar for many children.
Resoundingly, we are told by schools that the friendly, laid-back and "have a go" approach makes it a jo for children, carers and teachers alike.
A highlight of the day is the BBQ lunch and appearances by many local celebrities and mascots, including Victor the Viking and Canberra Raiders players Luke Page and Sam Williams, local media personalities, politicians, Hapy the Heart, Paddy the SES Platypus and Cappie of the Canberra Capitals.
As part of the appearance, the celebrities and mascots took part in a race, which was comfortably one by front-rower Page, much to the delight of the students.
"It was a great day to be involved in and it was really rewarding for Sam and I to see so many smiles on the kid's faces as they enjoyed all of the fun out-door activities," Page said.
"It was a sunny, bright day and, by all accounts, one of the best carnivals yet!" added Snedden Hall & Gallop Senior Associate Nick Tibbey.
