Special Olympians bring home medals

Seventy-one athletes from Lake County competed in the 2018 Ohio Special Olympic games, which took place on the campus of The Ohio State University in Columbus at the end of June.

“Athletes from Lake County competed hard and with great sportsmanship, bringing home with them many medals, new friends, and a bunch of memories that will last a lifetime,” said Chris Bundy, LCBDD/ Deepwood’s Recreation Specialist/ Special Olympics Coordinator. “These athletes are amazing—their commitment to training and the thrill of watching them compete is uplifting.”

A particularly special moment was when Todd Reider, a member of Lake County’s soccer team, scored his first goal.

It’s a moment all will enjoy. No matter someone’s age or developmental ability, sharing in a big moment such as this will lift your spirit.

The soccer team went on to earn a bronze medal.

Ian Carter, a first year competitor in cycling, has grown from the experience.

“I’ve watched Ian’s physical abilities and confidence grow tremendously and he shows real perseverance,” said John Carter, Ian’s father. “So many memories were made at the summer games--I didn’t realize that individuals of all ages could participate in the Special Olympics and was able to reconnect with a friend from 40 years ago.”

All total, athletes from Lake County received 74 placements across Cycling, Track and Field, Soccer, Volleyball, Tennis and Bocce Doubles. Placements include:

Cycling - 2 Golds, 4 Silver, 2 Bronze, 1 Fifth

Track and Field – 19 Gold, 18 Silver, 10 Bronze, 7 Fourth, 1 Fifth, 2 Participation Soccer Team – 1 Bronze Volleyball Team - 1 Silver Tennis – 1 Bronze, 1 Fourth

Bocce Doubles – 1 Gold, 1 Silver, 1 Bronze, 1 Fourth

The Lake County Special Olympics program is part of an array of recreational services offered by the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Those interested in learning more about the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/ Deepwood’s programs and services can visit www. lakebdd.org/.

SUBMITTED Some of the 71 athletes from Lake County who competed in the 2018 Ohio Special Olympic games pose for a photo, above.

Lake County athletes earned several medals in cycling at the 2018 Ohio Special Olympic games.