Athletes from Lake Arthur High School take to the field Thursday during opening ceremonies for the 3rd annual Jeff Davis Parish Special Olympics. The event pairs students with exceptionalities with their non-disabled peers in a series of athletic activities to increase their motor and social skills while building relationships and communication skills.

Kenzleigh Bertrand, a senior at Hathaway High School, and Myli Miller, a fourth grader at Lacassine High School, participate in the 25-meter walk Thursday during the 3rd annual Jeff Davis Parish Special Olympics at Lake Arthur High School. More than 70 students with exceptionalities and their non-disabled counterparts participated in a series of track and field events.

Dale Johnson, a senior at Lacassine High School, participates in the long jump Thursday during the 3rd annual Jeff Davis Parish Special Olympics. Students with exceptionalities were able to show off their athletic skills while forming new friendships and engaging in healthy competitions.

Chris Pry, a freshman at Lake Arthur High School, prepares to throw a softball Thursday during the 3rd annual Jeff Davis Parish Special Olympics. The event brings students with and without exceptionalities together to train, compete and build relationships through sports.

Jep Whitman, a student at Jennings Elementary School, makes his way to the finish line for the 25-meter walk Thursday during the 3rd annual Jeff Davis Parish Special Olympics. Whitman took first place in the competition held at Lake Arthur High School.