Giving it their all

The local athletes competed at the provincial games and walked away with 27 medals.

Nine members of the Bay St. George Special Olympics group and their coaches travelled to Gander and Gambo for the Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador 2010 Summer Championships on June 19 and 20.

"It was just so emotional," said coach Robin Bennett, whose sons Cameron and Shane won several medals. "We were just so proud."

The event featured more than 100 athletes, along with coaches and support staff, from 10 different Special Olympics clubs across the province. They competed in athletics and swimming events.

"It was great to go to a new town, meet some new friends and compete," said Shane.

The local Special Olympics group was started in January. Since then, they have met weekly for activities and socializing. Training for the provincial games began a month before the meet.

"They have so many more barriers than the average athlete," said coach Rosemary Ryan-Forsey. "It was emotional to see them give it their all and see the expressions on their faces."

Athlete Chris Dugas had participated in previous provincial Special Olympics, but this was his first time competing as a member of the Bay St. George team.

"My experience was good," he said. "It felt good to have a Stephenville team to race with and teammates cheering me on."

Nelson White, Special Olympics Newfoundland and Labrador's executive director, said in a release the games provide individuals with an intellectual disability an opportunity to take the spotlight and achieve through sport.

"Provincial championships are the pinnacle for the majority of our athletes on many levels so we are thrilled to be able to provide them with that opportunity," he said.

Andrea Dawe, co-organizer of the local club, said the group wanted to thank local businesses for their support, and hopes to have uniforms for all team members at the next provincial meet.

For more Special Olympics coverage, turn to the Georgian's sports page.

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