The Vernon Parish School Board will host the 2025 parish Special Olympics for 2025 on Friday, March 28, at the Leesville High School Track and Field complex.

Opening ceremonies are at 9:30 a.m. with the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Torch Run bringing the flame into the event.  The Leesville High JROTC will present the colors.   The parade of athletes will follow, then the pledge, oath and prayer.

Events for the participants will begin at 10 a.m.  They include softball toss, tennis ball toss, standing long jump, and running events(by ages). The public is invited to attend and cheer the athletes on.

Lunch will be provided and served to the athletes and helpers by the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Drinks are provided by Byrd Hospital. 

Participants will enjoy booths with sno-cones, popcorn, cotton candy, face painting, temporary tattoos, and bubbles.

Local food trucks will be on site with items to purchase for lunch.

The event will conclude at 1 p.m.  There is no cost to attend.  Please come and support our Special Olympians.

Special Olympics organizers thank the following sponsors:  The Leesville Lions Club, GEICO/Leesville, Merchants & Farmers Bank, Jeremy Burge/Allstate, Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office, David Haymon/State Farm, Landey Adams/State Farm, Byrd Hospital, Sabine State Bank, Harvest Temple Christian Center, The McCall Family, Barksdale Federal Credit Union, West Cenla Shrine Club, Maxout Injury Lawyers, Trey Coker/State Farm, Cryer’s Sports.