Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the Pelham Civic Association. The Pelham Examiner publishes press releases in the form received as a service to the community.
June 5, 2025 Pelham, NY. – The surface of Glover Field was alive with color and the sounds of friendly competition on the morning of Saturday, May 31st, as nearly 300 elementary school aged children from across the town took part in the 2025 Pelham Olympics. The annual event, hosted by the Pelham Civic Association, saw near record numbers of kindergarten – 5th grade participants joining in a variety of fun athletics games including a potato sack race, shooting on a professional soccer goalie, frisbee tosses, “baker’s dozen” game, tug-of-war, running races, and more.
“One of the many great things about the Olympics are all the amazing volunteers, both kids and adults,” said Pelham Civic Association President, Tim Case, who was on hand for the games. “When I asked the group of volunteers, ‘How many of you have participated in past Olympics?’ nearly every hand went up. They were all enthusiastic, helpful, and I think had a great time too. The event would not come close to happening without all the great volunteers from the Pelham community!”
The howling winds and threat of rain could not keep the 290+ child athletes, each wearing color-coded t-shirts, branded “Celebrate Pelham,” from attending. The 68 middle and high school aged event volunteers, many of whom were past Olympic participants, along with parents, both wearing event issued baby blue t-shirts, and Pelham Civic members, wearing the association’s navy-blue apparel, oversaw the safety and flow of the gender and grade-based groups competing.
“We were watching the weather closely in the days leading up to the Olympics and especially the night before,” said Rob Fontanella, Pelham Civic member and leader organizer of the games. “With so many participants, volunteers and facilities involved it would have been a big disappointment to have to cancel. We were encouraged talking to so many parents the evening before at shirt pick up who said, ‘A little rain? No problem! Our kids have been looking forward to this for weeks….and so have we!’’
Family members and friends enjoyed coffee and approximately 250 hot dogs, as they cheered on the athletes (and volunteers) from the nearby stands. Most had a “front row” seat to some of the action and were there to witness all athletes receive finisher medals and the winning teams their trophies.
“This is one of those community wide events that is fun for fun sake,” said Carl Pannuti, Pelham Civic and event committee member, who also supervised the start of the popular 100-meter dash. “I heard stories of children training for the games, especially the foot race, over the course of the year.”
Various Pelham community members and organizations contributed greatly to the Olympics, including T&L Trophies, Ball and Chain/Logo Tags, Pelham Boosters, Pelham Together, Pelham Recreation, Pelham Public Schools, and others.
Full event photos (sourced to Cararose Vitale PMHS ’25 and Todd Cross) are available here.
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About The Pelham Civic Association
Serving the Pelham, NY community since 1939. We are a charitable organization of men and their families dedicated to promoting civic involvement and assisting those in need. Our programs make a life-changing difference for hundreds of people every year, from young children to students, families, senior citizens, and those facing medical or financial hardship. Learn more about our programs and events at www.pelhamcivics.org.
