Pierson Schnitchen sings the national anthem during opening ceremonies for the District School Board of Niagara’s 17th annual Special Olympics.

Tuesday was one of Pierson Schnitchen’s favourite days of the year.

The Garrison Road student spent the day at Welland Centennial taking part in the District School Board of Niagara’s 17th annual Special Olympics.

“It is an exciting day. It is good for me because I get to see people who are like me and I get to see them come together and show what our true strengths are,” the 13-year-old Fort Erie resident said.

Pierson has been to several of the Special Olympics events in previous years and he always has a blast.

“I like everything about this meet. It is seeing people compete and showing all the struggles and how we say it is OK. I am beautiful just the way I am and I can compete just as well as anyone else.”

He usually takes part in a number of the events during the day but prefers events like the softball toss.

“I do like racing but I really like showing off my strength.”

An added bonus for Pierson Tuesday was a chance to sing the national anthem for the first time at the opening ceremonies. He did an impressive job with the anthem and showed absolutely no nerves.

“Once I got started, I didn’t actually feel anything. I felt very calm.”

It was a proud moment for him.

“It was very honourable. I felt honoured.”

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