By Tim Parry

If you looked over from the shot put area Sunday at Danbury High School, towards the lights at the Federal Correctional Institute, you could see an unpleasant sky approaching. What appeared to be a funnel cloud was possibly heading towards the Nutmeg State Games and its track and field meet.

And then came the voice from the press box, asking all spectators and athletes to exit the stadium slowly, in an orderly fashion, and seek shelter.

Though it was about 4 p.m., the skies soon darkened as if it were five hours later, and dumped inches of rain on the area.

The rain eventually stopped, but meet officials decided to postpone the remaining events until this Sunday, August 3.

About half the events had been completed at the time of the evacuation, but results will not be posted until the official completion of the meet.

Are you a trained medical professional with a big heart and passion for sports? The Nutmeg State Games needs qualified health care providers to volunteer their time and services.

The sports medicine team includes dedicated professionals from the following fields: athletic training, chiropractic, medicine, osteopathy, naturopathy, podiatry, physical therapy, nursing, massage therapy, emergency medicine, and occupational therapy. You’ll watch the competition from the sidelines and courtside; observe the small and big hits, twists, and bangs; and be on your toes to care for the athlete in need. You’ll help insure the health and safety of the athletes to be able to compete at their full potential.

The games will be taking place July 26 to August 3 in the Danbury area. Please review the schedule and indicate your dates and times of availability. It can be found at: http://www.nutmegstategames.org/08sportsmedinfo.pdf.

First aid and sports medicine supplies and medi-bags will be provided. If you have your own bags, then supplies will be provided where needed and available.

To volunteer or for any question, call 860-528-4588 or visit www.nutmegstategames.org.