Over 120 school children with disabilities descended on Tauranga Domain today for an annual Special Olympics event.

The secondary school meeting caters for the entire Bay of Plenty area, and features 12 schools from as far away as Whakatane, Rotoura and Katikati as well as closer to home.

Western Heights student Paige McLeary, 19, in the 100m race. Photos: Tracy Hardy.

Disciplines included traditional athletics field events, as well as developmental activities such as softball throw and the standing long-jump

The usual 100, 200, 400 and 800-metre races also featured along with some walking races.

Special Olympics regional sports coordinator Colleen Blacks says: 'We run a secondary schools programme throughout the Bay of Plenty and Waikato, and also do basketball, football and swimming.

'Some of the competitors are very serious and train properly for each event, and some of them are here for a bit of fun.

'But involvement and participation is the important part. We want them to get involved so they have sport all through their lives.

'It's good for their social integration and confidence building.

'Every year you see their confidence grow and their skill level improve. That's exciting because you know the kids and you see them getting better and better.

Special Olympics New Zealand carry out an event every term, with today's the last event of the year.

For more information, visit: www.specialolympics.org.nz

Western Heights students Cydney O'Neill, 15, in the 100m race.

Trident Special Needs School student Felicia Yeoman in the 100m race.

Trident High Special Education Centre student Peter Rosevear, 20, in the 200m race.

Trident High Special Education Centre students cheering on their fellow students.