Nov. 16, 2008, Fukuoka - Margot Carrington, Principal Officer of the U.S. Consulate, Fukuoka, gave opening remarks of the 13th Ohori Special Smile Run, a charity event for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Carrington explained that the Special Olympics movement, which is headquartered in Washington D.C., involves 2.5 million people in over 180 countries and she urged the 300 participating athletes and volunteers to join in making this year's event a success by giving it their all.

After firing the start gun for the 6 km race, Carrington cheered for the numerous participants along with many other supporters.