Athletes compete in Special Olympics Summer Classic

The spirit of competition is in full swing for Special Olympic athletes in Southern Colorado.

More than 100 athletes are taking part in this year’s Southeast Area Summer Classic at Memorial Park.

“It’s bocce ball, cycling, tennis and softball,” said athleteJenny Cheeseman. “I’m competing in singles and unified tennis today.”

The summer classic provides athletes of all skill levels a chance to be part of a team.

“I participated in Special Olympics for 26 years.I’m on a new team called The Fireballs,” Cheeseman said. “This is my first year joining their team.”

There was a strong sense of support from the crowd as supporters cheered athletes competing on the field.

“The turnout has been huge,” saidKaren Egan, interim area manager for Special Olympics. “We have great support coming from the community.”

Athletes prepared for two months to compete in the games Saturday.

“They’re excited and they’re ready to show the skills they’ve learned over the last several weeks,” Egan said.

For some competitors, there is more to the games than winning. They look forward to building bonds with their teammates.

“Just do your best,” Cheeseman said. “Whether you win first, second or third, do your best.”