There may have been fewer hugs and high fives than usual at Wednesday’s Taste Of Summer Charity BBQ, but not even COVID-19 could stifle the enthusiasm of the many special Olympians who have made it an annual tradition.

According to Special Olympics spokesperson Agne Thiessen, many athletes are missing the swimming, bowling, and running events they would typically be participating in this time of year because of the virus. A fun event like a BBQ, she notes, goes a long way in raising morale.

Right now, Special Olympics Canada and Special Olympics Manitoba are still discussing the future of the special athletics. “They say there will be some comeback,” says Thiessen. “But It may not be all of the specific sports our athletes are missing.”

The fundraiser hauled in a total of $1,907. Thiessen says those funds will go towards renting facilities so that their athletes can continue to train during these months of waiting. “If there are summer games in 2021, as planned, then the money will also go towards uniforms and other expenses,” she adds.

Thiessen says it means a lot to see so many community members eager to help the cause. 

“Thank you so much to everyone who came out to support us,” she says. “We really, really appreciate it!”