Athletes of all abilities enjoy a special day of sports and games

Photos by EMILY SZCZYPEK

Athletes in red T-shirts thronged Veterans Field on Forest Street this past Saturday as A Special Day in Waltham returned for a second year. Multiple local organizations including Opportunities for Inclusion, the Waltham Lions Club and Massachusetts Special Olympics collaborated on the event.

Individuals with developmental disabilities competed in inclusive sports and games including soccer, cornhole, fitness activities, a 25-yard dash, home run derby and ultimate Frisbee. Music and food trucks from Waltham’s Pizzi Farm rounded out the day.

Organizers paid an emotional tribute to Gabriel M. Vonleh, the late CEO of Opportunities for Inclusion. Mike Vrabel, head coach of the New England Patriots, also addressed the gathering.