May 31 was the 20th Annual Metro Tournament of the Special Olympics of the New York Region. It was held at the Riverbank State Park in Manhattan. The mission of the event is to provide athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Metro Tournament included track and field, basketball, power lifting, volleyball and aquatics.

Albert Chu is a 17-year-old Special Olympics athlete who participates in the aquatic events. Albert is a resident of Locust Valley and attends Levittown High School. Albert has been coached by Jennifer Turner and has met with Coach Jen and his teammates throughout the year practicing weekly at the Sid Jacobson Center in Roslyn for the Special Olympic competitions.

Albert swam in the 50-yard free stroke and was scheduled to swim in the 25-yard free stroke, however, the events were not completed because of thunder and lightening. Although the later events had to be cancelled due to weather, the sun seemed to shine all day because of the spirit the athletes radiate demonstrating physical skills, courage and joy. Albert, the athletes, families and friends shared the thrill of victory, which will remain as preparation continues for the next Special Olympics Event.