Special Olympics team wins medals

ESCAMBIA COUNTY, Fla. (WALA) - Officials with the Special Olympics Escambia/Santa Rosa said they had a successful return of its athletes from the State Fall Classic Competition at ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando.

The Fall Classic Games were held November 16 and 17, 2012. Members of their team competed in power lifting, artistic and rhythmic gymnastics and bowling. 

London 2012 Bronze medalist Kellie Wells gave the opening motivational speech, along with seven other Olympic Team USA members.

Ken McKenzie, who has been a Special Olympics athlete in Escambia County for over 20 years, was recognized with the honor of helping to carry the Flag into the stadium at opening ceremonies.  

While in Orlando, Special Olympics athletes attended the Healthy Athletes Program; free health screenings by doctors from all parts of the state for each of the 1,200 athletes in attendance at the games.

Officials with the Escambia/Santa Rosa team said the team achieved several honors including :  a gold medal in unified doubles in bowling, a gold medal in four person ream in bowling and a silver and bronze medal in singles bowling.

Power lifters for Escambia /Santa Rosa both took gold and the gymnastics team won a total of 10 cold and silver medals.  

Athlete Ken McKenzie and volunteer Coach Jennifer Miebach were both honored with Inspirational Athlete and Inspirational Coach designations.

 “We are always proud of our athletes as well as all those competing throughout the state. We would like to thank those who helped sponsor our trip to the Fall Classic this year and all who have graciously volunteered with us, inspiring greatness in our athletes,” said officials.

Special Olympics Florida- Escambia/Santa Rosa provides year-round sports training and competition to children and adults with intellectual disabilities, at no cost to the athlete or their caregiver, as a means to achieve physical fitness, self-esteem, socialization skills, and the life skills necessary to be a productive, respected and contributing members of their communities.