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| Inmates Ready to Host Special People's Olympiad |
| By kingstonthisweek.com |
| Published: 07/28/2003 |
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For 27 years athletes with disabilities have visited Collins Bay Institution, and along with godbrothers, competed in fun events that leave organizers and participants full of joy. It's that feeling that keeps the Special People's Olympiad alive, the only event of its kind at a federal prison in Canada. This year the Olympiad runs Saturday and Sunday, July 19-20. The Olympiad started in 1976. Inmates are paired with Special Olympic athletes to compete in two days of track and field activities. It continues because the inmates want to keep it going for the athletes. 'It's all about the athletes,' says Andrew Wristen, Olympiad chairperson. 'We don't do it for ourselves. We don't do it for [Correctional Service Canada].' Each year, inmates set aside their differences and work with staff to host the Olympiad. Collins Bay's current population is down to 190 from about 600 because of major prison renovations. It's more difficult to run the Olympiad with a lower population. This year, more than 50 percent of the inmates will take part in the event. That level of participation shows the strength of the event, says Wristen. This year about 100 athletes journey from centres across Ontario to the federal medium security institution on Bath Road. The athletes are bunked at Queen's University and start each day off with a meal at Frontenac Institution, adjacent to Collins Bay, prior to heading to the Olympiad. Each athlete is paired with an inmate, who are referred to as godbrothers. Whether new to the event or experienced, those who become godbrothers will never forget the event, says Wristen. The Olympiad is viewed by CSC as another way inmates can contribute to society in their rehabilitation. 'Events such as the Olympiad are an important opportunity for offenders to demonstrate their ability and desire to contribute positively to society,' says CSC Commissioner Lucie McClung. Olympiad organizing takes place the entire year. Inmates prepare the grounds for the games, collect sponsors, co-ordinate the athletes' accommodations and garner support from the John Howard Society and Lifeline. Inmates also contribute financially, through profits generated from an inhouse Tuck Shop, that sells items not available in the canteen. Every bit helps. |
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