Yesterday, Mr Keith (32), who has Down syndrome, embarked on his 26th annual Special Rigs for Special Kids adventure.
Mr Keith’s mother, Bronwyn Walters, said her son’s love of the event, which gave people with special needs an outing in a large convoy of trucks, was undeniable.
‘‘He starts asking when it is going to be months out from the day and making honking truck noises.
‘‘It would be hard to choose what he likes more, this or Christmas, but I think it would be this.’’
Over the years, Ricky had amassed a large group of truck driver friends, and the family had a photo album dedicated to documenting his Special Rigs trips.
The event was equally important to parents, Mrs Walters said.
‘‘I’m sure that the parents get as much enjoyment out of it. To see the truck drivers take time out for your child is amazing.’’
While Ricky did not have much to say about his excitement, the wide smile stretched across his face when he clambered into the rig said it all.
The Edgar Centre resembled a state of organised chaos as the base for the event.
As the trucks rolled away, families eagerly waved from the footpath.
The public’s desire to greet the convoy was still strong when the trucks drove up Taieri Rd.
Hundreds of people, some set up with camp chairs, took time in the sun to watch the spectacle.
The excitment of those on the footpath was reflected 10-fold in the faces of the children peering through the windows of the rigs.
Event organiser Greg Inch said when he started the event 26 years ago he ‘‘never imagined the social impact it would have’’.
About 200 trucks and 270 children were involved in the event this year.
‘‘It went great.
‘‘The drivers were happy, the kids were happy; they all love doing it.’’
margot.taylor@odt.co.nz
