Getting Back On Track: BISD Celebrates the Return of the YMBL Babe Zaharias Memorial Relays

After a four-year break, a Southeast Texas athletic tradition was “up and running” once again. The 37th YMBL Babe Zaharias Memorial Special Olympic Relays were held November 7th and 8th, 2023. Schools throughout Southeast Texas, including all Beaumont ISD campuses, crowded the Beaumont United High School track for the competition. 

The project, initiated by the Young Men's Business League, aims to contribute to the physical, social, and psychological development of students with special needs. Every year, a group of teachers, administrators, and community volunteers host a variety of activities, including 100, 50, and 25-yard dashes, softball throws, standing broad jumps, football relays, shuttle relays, basketball free throws, and even a tug-of-war. “It’s always nice to see students from across Southeast Texas, including BISD, Little Cypress-Mauriceville, Hardin Jefferson, and Port Arthur, rally together for such a fun event,” said Rolander Fontenot, BISD Assistant Athletic Director.  YMBL’s  goal is to provide Academics for Life (AFL), Special Needs, and Life Skills students with opportunities to engage in physical activities that can help them develop their skills and build self-confidence through positive, successful experiences in sports.

This event has been suspended since November 2019 due to the pandemic; however, this year's relays made a fantastic return and proved to be a well-deserved treat for the students, with an amazing turnout. The YMBL continues to be an incredible partner for Beaumont ISD and an invaluable asset to the entire Southeast Texas community.