GLENDALE, Ariz. — U-Haul proudly served as a title sponsor for the second annual Guardian Games on April 13. The event, founded and put on by Sanderson Ford, offers a forum for Special Olympics athletes to showcase their skills at the Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale, Ariz.
Volunteers representing Team U-Haul joined some of the Valley’s finest young people in a series of competitions. Games ranged from cornhole and home-run derby to street hockey and football passing. There was a station where athletes pushed a police vehicle and lifted a full-body mannequin past a finish line while being timed. Also on the agenda was a popular visit to Dave & Buster’s for a game of Mario Kart.
Guardian Games Supporters
Russ Baldwin, U-Haul Company of Western Arizona president, addressed the athletes, law enforcement officers and volunteers at the opening ceremonies.
Baldwin noted his appreciation for the local police departments that volunteered time and resources to the cause. He also thanked longtime partner Sanderson Ford, the Arizona supplier for so many of the U-Haul vehicles that make up the iconic orange-clad fleet of moving trucks and vans.
“Lastly, let me acknowledge and applaud the Special Olympics athletes and their family members that are here today,” Baldwin shared. “You are the reason we are all here. Your commitment to pushing your limits, your refusal to let nothing stand in your way, and your willingness to always strive for great things is truly an inspiration to each and every one of us. Never stop competing; never stop doing what you love to do; and never let anyone tell you that you can’t accomplish something.”
Finally, check out photos of the event here:
