Saturday’s rain did not stop local Special Olympics competitors from going the distance in the Area 2 Track and Field qualifier at Owensboro Middle School’s track. Breckenridge, Crittenden, Daviess, Henderson and Union counties were represented at the Area 2 Opening Ceremonies.
Athletes competed in at least one sporting event to qualify for the State Games that will be held May 31 to June 2 at Eastern Kentucky University’s campus in Richmond.
Coordinator Kim Johnson said that over 100 athletes registered for Saturday’s 15 sports offerings.
“Earlier we had two 3-year-olds compete, which was so cute,” said Area 2 Coordinator Jeanne Hurst.
Julia “Judy” Ann Carrico was the oldest participant in Saturday’s qualifier, although she has participated for many years in the Special Olympics. At 78 years old, she competed in the 25 meter assisted walk and the softball throw.
“I’d rather do this than be sitting at home,” Carrico said.
Carrico also competed in bowling in the 1999 Special Olympics World Games held in Raleigh, N.C. where she bowled a 144, a score she was pleased with.
“It’s what I want to do,” Carrico said. “God wants me in Special Olympics.”
Several community groups helped with the event, including the Owensboro Catholic High School track team, who has helped for over 20 years, and Owensboro High School track team members. Owensboro Christian Church also had volunteers at the event as part of their Serve the Boro community service project.
