The Keys’ Special Olympians have made waves at the state level in recent years – but on March 7, it was all about friendly in-county competition for Special Olympics Monroe County’s Summer Games. Meeting in the middle at Marathon High School, athletes were treated to an opening ceremony in the school’s stadium with law enforcement partners, local dignitaries and a ceremonial passing of the torch around the track. From there, athletes launched into a day of games in their chosen sports, including basketball, cheerleading, soccer and track and field. Also in attendance were five Special Olympics cyclists who completed their own time trial in Key West the week before.
“This is the first time in history in Monroe that we had every athlete, every coach and every partner in one place for those six sports,” said Ruth Coleman, sports training and competition manager for Special Olympics Monroe. “We are so grateful to our Florida Keys community – they wrapped their arms around our athletes.”
Special Olympics Monroe County is still seeking volunteers for upcoming events. To get involved, contact Ruth Coleman at 305-923-0288.
Photos by NATALIE DANKO/Keys Weekly. For a full gallery, see keysweekly.com.
