Tri County Chargers participate in area Special Olympics event

For the fourth year the Tri County Chargers have competed in Area 9 and State Summer Games in track and field events. This year there were 10 athletes who competed at the area meet and eight athletes at the Summer Games.

On May 2, 10 athletes, along with parents and coaches, traveled to Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter to compete in the Special Olympics – Minnesota Area 9 Athletics Meet. The athletes earned five first place ribbons, five second place ribbons, 12 third place ribbons, five fourth place ribbons and one sixth place ribbon.

From June 17-19, eight athletes participated at the Summer Games, where they each improved their time and distances in each of their events. The team brought home eight gold medals, three silver medals, six bronze medals, two fourth place ribbons and one sixth place ribbon.

Also at the event the group enjoyed the opening ceremonies on June 17 with Tim McNiff of KARE 11 as master of ceremonies. Other highlights included the parade of athletes, introduction of teams and the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which ended with the lighting of the Olympic flame. On the night of Friday, June 18, there was also a dinner, dance, bingo and karaoke.

The team will compete again in November in the Fall Bowling Classic and will be practicing at the Strike Force Bowl in New Prague. Anybody is welcome to participate and the group is always in need of volunteers as coaches or chaperones. For more information call Sue Schmitz at 952-873-2046.