PHOTOS BY RON BAILEY
Leonardtown, MD – Despite challenging weather the annual St. Mary’s County Special Olympics Spring Games were held Friday, April 22 at Leonardtown High School. The event began with a “parade of athletes” marching into the stadium and lighting a torch.
An estimated 260 athletes ranging in age from 8 to 60-plus competed in bocce, softball, and track and field.
“The event went fine,” Sue Chappelear, a Special Olympics volunteer. “However, the rain opened up around 1 p.m. and came down in buckets. Many of the athletes weren’t able to finish their events.”
The spring games event held April 22 was a qualifier for the statewide Summer Games to be held in June at Towson. Another qualifier will be held in Southern Maryland May 7 in Charles County.
Chappelear said the event was supported by athletes’ family members and local Navy personnel. A school marching band played during the opening ceremonies. Local dignitaries were also on hand to greet the athletes and volunteers.
For more information about St. Mary’s County Special Olympics, visit www.stmarysso.org
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com
