Students compete in the Colquitt County Special Olympic Winter Games

MOULTRIE — There were nothing but winners at the Colquitt County Special Olympics Winter Games Friday — student athletes, teachers, coaches, volunteers and parents.

The schools held the annual event at Colquitt County High School, Freckles Skate Center, Strike Zone 10 and the YMCA.

Tara Torbert, member of local Colquitt County Special Olympics Management Team, said many hours go into planning the Winter Games.

“Hundreds of athletes, coaches and volunteers are able to enjoy this special day because of the dedication of our directors, PJ Jones and Mitchell McKinney and the local management team,” she said. “Without their planning and efforts, this would not be possible.”

She added that the games would also not be possible without the volunteers that help the athletes with disabilities compete in their favorite sports.

Athletes competed in gymnastics, swimming, skating, bowling and various basketball events after the Opening Ceremony. The ceremony is a long standing tradition that shows respect for the athletes and the games, Torbert said.

During the ceremony, student athletes gave a special, musical performance that encouraged the audience to “try everything.”

Also, during the ceremony, Jayden Williams gave the Special Olympics Athlete Oath: “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

Cox Elementary School Principal Kristi Gonzales officially opened the games, “Today we celebrate the determination, courage and joy of every athlete. Packer family, it is my honor to say, ‘Let the Games begin!’”

The Colquitt County School District schools competing in the games were Vereen, Funston Elementary, Sunset Elementary, and Okapilco Elementary. And also Odom Elementary, Hamilton Elementary, Stringfellow Elementary, Cox Elementary, C.A. Gray Junior High, Willie J. Williams Middle School and Colquitt County High School.

Crysti Handfield, special education teacher at CCHS and swimming coach, said, “Special Olympics is one of my favorite days of the year! Watching my athletes say the oath, tote our school banner, light the flame, and compete in the pool … There’s just nothing better than watching them be celebrated!”

To follow the Colquitt County Special Olympics, go to their Facebook page. They are also on the Colquitt County School District page, under the Special Education Department section.