Everyone was decked out in the teams colors and the spirit was high at camp as morning games got underway. The energy on camp was high as our teams took to the fields and courts for some serious games and competitions. If you could have seen the freshman girls dig deep and give everything they’ve got in a game of steal the bacon, you would have been blown away. Regardless if it was the collegiate boys playing newcomb or CIT’s having their water polo match in the pool, it was all intense, competitive and so much fun. You could hear chants and cheers all throughout camp as the kids gave it everything they have and to watch them celebrate the wins and support their team when they lost, is why Olympics is so special here. There was a collegiate girl who missed a crucial free throw at the end of her game. That cost the game for her team and you could see the devastation she felt when she missed the shot. Her team ran to her with support as they saw her feeling discouraged and responsible for the loss. I overheard one of her teammates say to her, “We did everything we could, but the Gold Team just got this one. You didn’t loose it for us, we’re a team.” Then the they walked off the court together arm in arm. This is everything and this is what we do here. We cheer each other on when we win together and support one another when we loose together. This is the magic of Chen-A-Wanda Olympics
Tonight was all about Apache Relay. Each team has 70 events to complete and the first team to finish will be crowned the winner of the Relay. The horn blew and the race began. Every member of each team is an integral part of the race. No matter if you are a Freshman or a CIT, your parts are equally important. This event emphasizes what a family we are here and bring us all together. There were so many memorable moments from tonights Apache but one that stood out was Junior camper Hudson Wachler who was given the task of running from the camp sign on Camp Rd. to the flag pole in center camp. That is a 1/4 mile run and Hudson was competing alongside GC’s and CIT’s. He was the first junior ever who was given this event and he nailed it. Everyone was blown away by his effort and his ability. Hudson ran down Camp Rd. with confidence and determination and everyone was in awe watching his run. This was his moment and he deserved accolades for competing with the big kids and not only did he keep up, he dominated that race. It was awesome to witness and a moment that we know will stay with Hudson forever. Olympics brings us together and brings the best out of us.
After a full day of games, our Olympic athletes were glad to get to bed. They know that the battle continues tomorrow with more games and ends with Olympic Sing. If you know Olympics, It always comes down to Sing!!