USA 4 August: Chicago
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804a.jpg)
A few pounds heavier from last night's meal we headed out to Hanson Field, an athletics track in north-west Chicago for the Chicago Area Project (CAP) Games - a track and field event for youth from 31 community organizations in the Chicago area.
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804d.jpg)
Chicago Area Project's philosophy is to improve the quality of neighborhood life with a special focus on solving problems faced by young people and their families.
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804e.jpg)
This year the Cap Games took on an international focus as the day began with a parade of nations featuring flags from more than 40 countries along with a special Harmony Torch passing ceremony between the 31 participating CAP affiliates.
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804f.jpg)
After the opening ceremony the games began with long jump, sprints and baseball toss allowing these talented individuals to showcase their skills.
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804j.jpg)
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/week507/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804m.jpg)
At 11.30 am the kids stopped for a well earned break and a half-time show which featured the famous Jesse White Tumblers - a fantastic group of gymnasts who perform a series of gravity defying feats. Jesse White, a real force for good in the Chicago Community is currently serving a Secretary of State for Illinios.
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804h.jpg)
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/week507/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804l.jpg)
Also, on hand to encourage the kids was Tyrus Thomas, a promising new player for the Chicago Bulls. Tyrus very kindly held the torch with us.
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804k.jpg)
State Senator Mattie Hunter sponsored the Games and was very encouraging the all the participants emphasizing one of the day's theme of going back to school and how essential that is for the positive future of all the CAP Games participants.
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804i.jpg)
Also, at the break we had a chance to share a few words of encouragement with the kids as well as singing the World Harmony Run song.
![](../../../../images/usa/news/2007/images/offroute/0804/0804b.jpg)
Thanks very much to the CAP Games organizers for a great event and we look forward to seeing you next year.
Harmonemail:
You can send a message to the runners or read the messages.
< USA 3 August |
USA 3 November > |