WRAL-TV’s Morgan Helps Open Summer Olympics Tourney

WRAL-TV’s Debra Morgan waves to athletes at the Opening Ceremonies for the Special Olympics.

The 2008 Olympics in Bejing will soon begin, but WRAL-TV Anchor/Reporter Debra Morgan recently took part in an Olympic ceremony right here in North Carolina.   Morgan emceed the Opening Ceremonies for the Midsummer Tournament games for Special Olympics North Carolina on Friday, July 18, 2008.

The SONC Opening Ceremonies took place at the Dorton Arena on the State Fairgrounds in Raleigh. 

Morgan recently joined the board of SONC, replacing WRAL-TV Anchor/Reporter Ken Smith.  Although his term was up, Smith maintains an active volunteer role in the organization.

Morgan emcees the opening event.

“I’ve been a volunteer on and off over the years for Special Olympics since I was in college,” said Morgan.  “I’m thrilled to take a more active role now on the board.  The smiles on the faces of the athletes keep you coming back for more.”

The Opening Ceremonies included a parade of athletes featuring nearly 800 athletes and coaches from 57 local programs statewide.  The lighting of the cauldron and opening of the tournament were also features of the event. 

WRAL-TV served as the television media sponsor for the Opening Ceremonies and all SOCN Midsummer Tournament competition events.  The tournament ran July 18-20.

Thanks to SONC’s Megan O’Donnell for these capcom photos.