TORII STATION, Okinawa, Japan – Dr. Nancy Bresell, Director for DoDDSPacific/
DDESS-Guam recognized DJ Larmarr for his outstanding dedication, loyalty, and
commitment to Special Olympics. Lamarr a Kadena High School student is the only
athlete from Okinawa and the second American to compete on a Japanese Team. The
opening ceremonies are scheduled to begin with more than 7,500 athletes and 40,000
volunteers, representing 165 countries.
Lamarr has been participating in Special Olympics for several years focusing
on basketball and bowling. Two years ago Special Olympics Nippon held a bowling
clinic on Okinawa to determine the level of interest in developing bowling as a
competitive sport. Professional coaches observed Lamarr as he came close to bowling a
perfect game. Lamarr along with four other teammates, went on to the national games in
Kumamoto, Japan where he was selected to represent Japan in the Summer World
Games.
DJ’s mother Diane Lamarr explained that Special Olympics transcends
geographic and political boundaries. “He has used his athletic gifts to accomplish feats
that we never would have thought possible. Our son says, "I'm going to win"....such are
his feelings of self-worth and confidence. We have been awed continually by the spirit of
the Special Olympics that permeates Okinawa, Japan, and the United States. This "can
do" spirit has given us high hopes for our son's future.”
“We are thrilled by his success and credit should be given to his parents along
with the amazing volunteers on Okinawa. Without the continued support from the
military and organizations like the American Women's Welfare Association, this Disneylike
story would have never come true. To the incredible teachers and staff at Kadena
High School, thank you. To DJ, you are my hero. The athletes of Special Olympics are
not sufferers of a disability but rather role models of acceptance and hope,” said Bresell.
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