1999 Family Track & Field Games 1999 Family Track & Field Games a Run-away Success Long legs and short legs pumped fiercely amidst the cheers of family and friends during the Family Track & Field Games on June 5, 1999 at the Maryland School for the Deaf. The event, sponsored by United States of America Deaf Track & Field (USADTF), was part of a larger initiative to increase the visibility of the organization, as well as encourage the development of tomorrow's deaf athletes and coaches. Approximately 200 children and adults participated in the fun-filled day of running sprint, long-distance, and relay events, in addition to field events, including the long jump and shot put. The day included a tribute to former World Games for the Deaf (WGD) athletes Bill Williams ('61), Al Couthen ('65), Howie Gorrell ('69, '73) Terry Berrigan ('77), Pat Berrigan ('69, '73), Thomas Withrow ('81, '85, '89, '93, '97), Wayne Langbein ('93, '97), Tiffany Granfors ('85), Debbie Myers ('85), Leroy Dixon ('81, '85), Paula Smith ('85), Karin Polzin ('85), Daniel Frank ('85), Toby Daniels ('89) and Chevelle Barron ('97). WGD athletes also demonstrated several track & field events during an exhibition and awarded ribbons to the day's winners. Many of the day's participants and spectators requested that the Games become an annual event. Said one parent, "The [Family Track & Field] Games are a great concept. Not only do we get together as a community, but children learn about competition and sportsmanship in a supportive and fun environment!"