The Kentucky Department of Agriculture announced that it has teamed up with Special Olympics Kentucky to expand the Sunshine Class at the Kentucky State Fair. KDA officials said the partnership is increasing awareness of the class, which is for youth in the Commonwealth who have special needs. Special Olympics Kentucky representatives said their athletes have opportunities to compete athletically, but the chance to enter a show ring will allow them to excel in another area.
Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell said the program is all about inclusion and is continuing to grow in participation.
“They started the Sunshine Class to allow special needs individuals to show a lamb just like everybody else does, at the county fairs and State fairs that participate in it,” said Shell. “The first year we had three participants, two years ago we had five, and last year there were 12.”
He said along with a mentor, the students will escort a lamb around the show ring. Shell said the partnership has been important when it comes to expanding this inclusive experience across the state.
“We're really excited, they've been great partners. I think it's a learning experience, not only for them but for us as well. Special Olympics have been around for a long time, and it's highly competitive,” Shell said. “They do a great job in exactly what we're trying to accomplish here with helping these individuals with special needs just feel like everybody else.”
Organizers with the event said this year’s class is already full, with 60 students signed up. The participants will show lambs, which were chosen because of their gentle nature and ability to be led. The students will show their lambs at the Louisville Expo Center at 3 p.m. on August 22. More information can be found at kystatefair.org.