Team Dover hosts Special Olympic event Published Sept. 13, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Kathryn Stilwell 436 436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- -- The Special Olympics Delaware held their 2011 Cycling Classic Sept. 10 at the Air Mobility Command Museum for the third year in a row. The event kicked off with the traditional opening ceremonies, including the carrying of the torch and the recital of the Special Olympics oath led by Kenny Jones who represented team USA in the Special Olympic World Games held in July at Athens, Greece. More than 100 military members volunteered to support more than 35 participants in several bike races by cheering them on and timing each segment. The races varied from 20 kilometers to 1 kilometer and even included tandem bicycle races in the event. The teams were: Benedictine, the Delaware Autism Program Brennen Bears, Mighty Marlins, Newark Lightning, North Stars, Thunder Bears, the Special Olympics Maryland Upper Shore and the Special Olympics Virginia Flying Eagles. One of the participants, Renee Kalokitis, a competitor with the North Stars, had her husband, aunt, and father there to support her. "I enjoy it because I meet so many friends," said Kalokitis. She is a returning athlete, having participated in so many Special Olympics that she lost count. The athletes gathered at the starting line in accordance to their races. Each participant was timed individually as volunteers encouraged them on from the sidelines. In the end, not everyone went home a winner, but each was acknowledged for their hard work.