Published: May 10, 2008 10:36 pm            

Passing the Torch

• Summer Games close another year in Stillwater

It was all about recognition during the Closing Ceremonies of the 2008 Special Olympics Summer Games in Stillwater on Friday morning at Droke Track at Oklahoma State University.

“As we gather this year to celebrate these summer games and share together in the spirit of sports and friendship, we salute the athletes for their courage and determination in competition,” said Casey Kendrick of TV 31, emcee for the ceremony.

One athlete in particular was recognized. Eric Tidwell of Poteau was named the 2008 Special Olympics Athlete of the Year, and had several duties throughout the event. Tidwell was the first of the award winners to be announced and walk along the track to his seat in front of the crowd.

Next was Irie Weir of Jenks, who won the Spirit Award, but was unable to attend the ceremony. The Schultz Family of Tulsa was recognized at the Family of the Year. Parents Carrie and Dale rode on the back of their son J.C.’s wheel chair around the track to their places.

All of the volunteers and coaches were then asked to stand and be recognized for their efforts throughout the year.

“Year round, Special Olympics Oklahoma utilizes 11,000 volunteers,” Kendrick said. “These volunteers do everything from coordinating venues to assisting in raising the awareness of our program.”

Karen Chapman, Clinton, received the Frankhauser Volunteer of the Year Award during the ceremony. It was the coaches’ turn next.

“Another group that is crucial to the success of our program is the coaches who are with the athletes as they are doing their year-round training,” said Kendrick.

“Coaches make a true commitment to Special Olympics and without their knowledge and assistance, our program would not be the success it is.”

Shelley Gibson of Catoosa was honored as the Coach of the Year.

Lucy Newlin, a member of First Presbyterian Church of Stillwater, played a part by singing the National Anthem, and “Somewhere over the Rainbow” before Tidwell joined troopers from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol to ceremonially take the Olympic Flame and preserve it until next year.

“Even though these games are coming to a close, the courage and determination you’ve shown this week will keep all of us going strong until we meet again for Special Olympics Winter Games,” Kendrick said to the athletes. “See you next year.”

The ceremony concluded with cheers from the Stillwater High School pom squad, and OSU spirit squad, with Pistol Pete.

        

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