The 2007 Junior Blind Olympics, held April 21, drew over 200 blind and visually impaired youth to compete in Olympic-style event relays, archery, shot put, and indoor rowing. The event, hosted by the Junior Blind of America (JBA) and the Optimist Blind Youth Association took place at JBA’s campus in Los Angeles, Calif.

Indoor rowing was introduced as a new event this year, and had the greatest number of participants of all ages and abilities.  Volunteer rowers from local rowing clubs showed each child how to row, and then coached them through their two-minute event. Loyola University donated six rowing machines for the day. Volunteers and athletes alike were extremely enthusiastic.

To highlight the event, Xeno Mueller, a 1996 Olympic gold medalist in the men’s single sculls, attended to encourage the participants and speak at the closing ceremonies.

The day also included words of encouragement from local dignitaries, state senators and JBA volunteers, followed by a parade of over 200 athletes led by the University of Southern California marching band, Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck.  The sound of trumpets and drums bounced off the walls of the buildings in the courtyard, electrifying the anticipation and excitement of the event. Junior athletes dawned their medals and marched out behind the band in the closing ceremonies.

For more information on the 2007 Junior Blind Olympics, visit http://www.juniorblind.org.