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The Speed Shop gives back to the Canfield Community
CANFIELD
For the first year, The Speed Shop of Canfield will host the Special Olympics at Canfield High School on Aug. 27.
The Speed Shop, 4435 Boardman-Canfield Road, is a gym that got its start in Canfield five years ago by owner Jason Jannetti.
Jannetti said he’s always wanted to have his gym sponsor an event such as this to give back to the community.
He said he “just feels awesome” being able to give back to a good cause.
“I just like to do it. It’s nice to help out,” he said. “Not everyone is willing to do that, and I don’t know why.”
From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., local teams will battle with teams from Cleveland, Columbus and more in a number of athletic events to win prizes at Canfield High School stadium on Cardinal Drive.
Although Jannetti said the Olympics are small in numbers this year, he hopes to “blow up” the numbers for next year.
So far, he said he has seen a real effort from Canfield businesses for donations, prizes, sponsorships and more.
“Just being able to provide people a chance to get better and do things together is great,” he said.
Sheila Martinsen, local Special Olympics coordinator, said the best part about running the event is being able to give those with special needs the same opportunities that those without special needs have.
“It’s great for everyone to be physically active and it’s nice to see them get in some social benefits, too,” she said.
Her son Tyler, a Special Olympics participant, also known as T-Bone or James Diamond, said as much as he enjoys being able to play his favorite sport – basketball – he likes being able to make friends, as well.
Jannetti said he likes to stress the importance of fitness not only to Olympics participants, but also to his gym-goers.
“The biggest thing is to get people here and get them moving,” he said. “People invest in themselves. ... Fitness is forever, not just for a little bit.”
Registration for the event can be done by visiting www.gorow.eventbrite.com, the shop’s website, http://speedshopathletics.com, or by going to The Speed Shop, 4435 Boardman-Canfield Road.