A large group of Korean-Americans across the southeast gather together for some friendly competition.

 

By Anna Kim

Staff Writer

Kim@Kheraldatl.com

 

The 38th Korean American Southeastern Summer Olympics took place at Peachtree Ridge High School in Suwanee on June 8th and 9th.

This two day event was jam packed with over a dozen sporting events. With around 15,000 participants of all-ages and 30 dedicated volunteers, the event kicked off and ended without a hitch.

750 players competed in 14 different sport entries: golf, soccer, track and field, basketball, volleyball, foot volleyball, table tennis, tennis, Tae Kwon Do, badminton, swimming, bowling, and tug-of-war.

Among the 14 participating associations from the southeast, Team Montgomery took the wreath of victory, while Atlanta placed second and Raleigh placed third. Team Atlanta failed to take first place for the sixth year in a row.

Team Montgomery was thrilled with being the champion for the first time in six years.

“We are so happy about what our team has achieved in the most successful Korean sports event,” said Park Min Sung, President of Korean American Association of Montgomery. “I really appreciate all the staff and volunteers who were assiduous about their duties. All in all, we feel proud of all the players who have honed and shown their skills with no regrets.”

While the players were what drew the crowd, the endless work of the volunteers made these games glorious. However, Koreans adults were not the only volunteers present. A lot of youths also participated in the event as volunteers.

Through this experience, students and parents drew closer together.

“Since the volunteer teams were well-organized, we didn’t experience any volunteer shortage during the event,” said Michelle Lee, the Volunteer Coordinator. “I believe that these kinds of sports festivals help Koreans to come together and unite. So, I willingly jumped into the opportunity to lead the volunteers. I consider volunteering students to be a hidden leading role for event success.”

Nathan Deal, Governor of the State of Georgia, delivered opening remarks through a written letter.

“Please allow me to welcome all the athletes competing in today’s games, their families, and other attendees,” said Mr. Deal, “The Federation of Korean Associations, S.E. USA is dedicated to bettering the lives of Korean Americans across our state and nation. You have improved the lives of many through your work within Georgia’s communities. On behalf of a grateful state, I thank you for your committed efforts.”

K-Pop performances were held at the closing ceremony where all attendees were united. The extremely talented young performers worked well on stage and hailing from the seats in the gymnasium was a good match to liven up the atmosphere. All of the participants and the audience were given two thumbs up. The Federation of Korean Associations, S.E. USA handed out a scholarship to Jennifer Fero, Assistant Principal of Peachtree Ridge High School. Ms. Fero, a Korean adoptee, showed gratitude to the host.

The Federation of Korean Associations, S.E. USA continues marching forward for the sake of the Korean community's prosperity.

“This 38 year-long Korean American SE sports festival has played a pivotal role in bridging the generation gap in harmony and instilling pride of being Korean into the Korean American second generations,” said Sohn Whan, President of the Federation of Korean Associations, S.E. USA. “We wish this Olympics would serve to help the Korean community would grow more wholesome. I hope we could meet again next year!” 

 

김언정기자 

Team Montgomery took the wreath of victory.

 

750 players competed in 14 different sport entries: golf, soccer, track and field, basketball, volleyball, foot volleyball, table tennis, tennis, Tae Kwon Do, badminton, swimming, bowling, and tug-of-war.

 

A lot of youths also participated in the event as volunteers.

 

The traditional Korean drum dance at the closing ceremony.