The rain held-off and Mother Nature turned up the heat just in time for the Annual Special Olympics Indiana Summer Games in Terre Haute June 9th, 10th, and 11th. Marion County Southside Storm athletes rose to the occasion and sizzled in track and field competition at the Gibson Field Complex as adrenaline pumped and athletes soared. At Rose-Hulman, fellow Southside Storm athletes took their marks and made a splash while competing in Special Olympics Indiana – Marion County South’s ninth and newest sport offered through the Marion County South program — swimming.
Athletes enjoyed all the typical sights and sounds of Olympic Town while working their way through the required health screenings to get the ultimate reward of a brand new pair of New Balance tennis shoes, compliments of the Finish Line.
Friday night Opening Ceremonies heated up the Summer Games even more as entertainers twirled blazing batons and gyrated with flaming hula hoops in a performance that eventually culminated with a fire-eater. On Saturday night, athletes attended the Festival of Athletes Annual Party and Dance night which also included a Police K-9 Demonstration by the Terre Haute Police Department and Indiana State Police.
Hard work was recognized; competitions were won; medals and ribbons awarded; but the most inspirational moments of the weekend were without a doubt, the lasting friendships and acceptance of all athletes coming together to rise above adversity and conquer life’s challenges.
Southside Storm 