"Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt." Today, close to 300 athletes will be pledging this oath as they participate in the annual Special Olympics in Athens. The event will be held at Peden Stadium with the opening ceremony beginning at 8:30 a.m. The competitions will run from 9:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Anyone is invited to watch from the stands and cheer on the athletes.

The Special Olympics is a non-profit organization consisting of sports training and competitions for individuals with mental retardation. Today's competition is a regional event with athletes from eight different counties, said Sue Ellen Miller, chairwoman for the Special Olympics Organizing Committee.

Some of the competitions include softball throws, wheelchair races and traditional and unified relays - relays for two participants with mental retardation and two of their friends.

Although the Special Olympics is not affiliated with Ohio University, many students and faculty members volunteer their time.

A variety of volunteers throughout the community comprise the organizing committee.

"My committee and I are grateful to the university and the community members for their generous donations of time and effort," said Miller, an Olympics volunteer for 19 years.

The Special Needs Athletes Partner Program also will be involved today by coordinating Fun Town at the Special Olympics, said member Hilary Pyers. Fun Town is a carnival with activities and entertainment for the participants when they are not competing.

Senior Andrew Hanrahan has been involved with SNAPPS since his sophomore year. Currently SNAPPS works with about 20 children. Six will be participating in today's events and the rest will be helping with Fun Town.

"I think it is a really good way for people to get involved in the local community and keep an active communication between adults and kids," he said.