GLEN SPEY, NY — No politics. No controversy. Just pure fun and fair competition. Such was the case at the local Book Olympics, held on August 3 in Circle Park. 

The Sunshine Hall Free Library Olympic Committee sponsored the event, in which the core Olympic values of excellence, respect and friendship were fully on display. 

Seven young Olympians participated in four events: a bean bag toss to knock over books, a book relay, a book balance and an agility course that had participants run between stacks of books.

Stars were awarded based on completion and skill—and were attached to each participant’s medal. Prizes were distributed following the competition. 

Of course, post-event refreshments rehydrated and nourished the young athletes. 

The Olympic theme song stirred the hearts of participants as well as the spectators, who cheered exuberantly as each athlete left it all on the field of competition.   

The contest was truly international as participants from the U.S. and Canada competed. 

The Olympic Committee was chaired by library director Patty Kennedy. Working with her was Diana Yang, who conducts the bi-weekly preschool reading program, with assistance from Xavier Reeves, Veronica Reeves, Donna Belgard and Kate Cortright. 

Sunshine Hall Free Library is located at 14 Proctor Rd. in Eldred. Learn more at www.sunshinehallfreelibrary.org.