Hermann High School’s special services program on Friday hosted 17 school districts for their 15th Special Olympics track and field events and young athlete activities at Bearcat Memorial Stadium.

Mild, overcast weather greeted an estimated 900 school-age children including the young athletes. With teachers, adult and high school volunteers and personal assistants, the estimated gathering for the 10 a.m. opening ceremony march included around 1,200 people, according to Missy Ash, special education teacher for the Gasconade County R-1 School District in Hermann.

Peoples Savings Bank opened the event with a $3,000 donation to help cover costs for the event.

“They have been huge supporters,” said Ash of the event which has grown steadily over the past 15 years.

Ash said the event has also benefited from the generous support from  Calvin’s Distributing in Hermann which donated all soft drinks for the event. Cash Saver Village Market donated all the condiments and bread products for the event and half of the meat. The other half of the meat supplies for the event were provided at cost, said Ash.

“They’ve been a huge promoter and provider for our event this year,” said Ash of the local grocery store. “And Calvin’s too. This event has just grown over the years and our local businesses have been really supportive.”

Hermann Lions Club members and the local Masonic Lodge both had grills going near the concession stand preparing hamburgers and hotdogs for the competitors, their teachers and assistants, and the spectators. Each school received a cooler of food items for their respective students, staff, and volunteers.