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Don Leach flashes vcitory signs as he reaches the finish line Monday in a race at the local Special Olympics Games.
Special Olympian Kevin Eldridge carries the torch, accompanied by Havre Police Officer Josh Holt, front left, and U.S. Border Patrol Agent Christian Montanez, in the front of the the presentation of the colors and athletes' march Monday at the Havre Middle School track during the opening ceremonies of the local Special Olympic Games.
Special Olympic athletes from all over the Hi-Line took part in Monday's Northern Area Special Olympic Games at Havre Middle School.
About 90 competitors from Harlem, Chinook, Big Sandy, Chester, Malta, Turner and Havre walked, ran, jumped and threw. Competitive events included 50-meter walks and runs, 100-meter walks and runs, a 200-meter run, standing and running long jump, a four by 100-meter relay, softball throw, shot put and bowling. Athletes have ranged from 7 to 70 years old. Olympics Area Director Dave Carlson said there is no age limit for competitors.
The games were supposed to happen last Wednesday, but the weather didn't cooperate.
Monday's weather, however, was anything but uncooperative.
Local Program Coordinator Mandy Hansen, sporting a pair of sunglasses and a constant grin, was excited for everyone who competed, her family, as she referred to them.
Hansen and Carlson said special-needs athletes focus more on participation than competition. For special-needs athletes, it's mostly about socializing with others, Hansen said.
That's not to say some of the athletes are not competitive, Carlson added.
Hansen said the games also help strengthen of life skills.
Carlson and Hansen each helped the other remember the exact words of the Special Olympics motto that they felt adequately illustrated the mindset of those who took part: "Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me brave in the attempt."
From the volunteers to the facility providers to parents and friends, Hansen said, she was thankful for the overwhelming support Havre has shown. She called the community "a heart that's overflowing."
Carlson, who shares his job with his wife, Anne-Marie, and has two children with special needs, said there are more games on the horizon. There's a basketball tournament in the fall, a state bowling competition event in September, which will be held in Havre, and a winter sports event in February, which will be held in Whitefish.
Those interested in volunteering can go to http://www.somt.org. For information about volunteering, people can also call 216-5327.
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