Special Olympics BC-Trail athletes shone at the 2017 BC Special Olympics Summer Games in Kamloops earlier this month.
Nearly 1,200 athletes gave their all and inspired everyone watching at the 2017 Special Olympics BC Summer Games, held in Kamloops July 6 to 8. These were SOBC’s largest Provincial Games to date and a thrilling display of the true power and joy of sport.
After earning their spots in the 2017 SOBC Games through 2016 Regional Qualifiers, the competitors from more than 50 communities throughout B.C. and the Yukon trained hard with their year-round Special Olympics programs in their hometowns to be ready to be at their best in Kamloops. They delivered outstanding performances in Canada’s Tournament Capital, showing their abilities and determination, and helping change the way the world sees individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Supported by more than 350 volunteer coaches and mission staff, the athletes competed in the 11 SOBC summer sports.
The Trail contingent was led by Montrose native Stuart Hawton who swam to three gold medals and a silver, while Alyssa Berdusco captured two bronze in the pool.
Robert Tarko found success on the bowling lanes, coaching his team to a silver medal and winning gold for himself for most pins.
In bocce ‘C’ Division, the Kootenay Warriors duo of Neil Emmery and Lou Mazzei captured gold, while in Bocce ‘A’ Division, the Kootenay Ball Busters team of Paula Prough, Maria Veltri and Sherry Altrogge won bronze.
Golfer Jake Miller finished in fifth place.
