Special Olympics

It's been fun these last four years to see 1,000-plus Special Olympics athletes enjoy the festivities for the State Fall Games in Cape Girardeau.

The recent games, which were to be played Oct. 11 through 13, had several rain outs. While organizers and the city staff hoped to get the fields ready, it wasn't feasible. Regardless, the athletes, many traveling several hours to Cape Girardeau for the weekend, had an enjoyable time.

A story in Monday's paper by reporter Emily Priddy included a comment from a coach who was originally frustrated that the games could not be played. But after seeing the joy on the faces of the athletes at the Saturday night dance, he said it was all worth it. If you missed the games, check out the photo gallery at semissourian.com.

We wish the organization well next year as it moves the games to Jefferson City, Mo., for another four-year stint. As the organization's president noted in a guest column that appeared on this page in Thursday's edition, there will be other opportunities for those in this area to participate in Special Olympics activities, including bowling competitions, the Polar Plunge on Feb. 1 at Lake Boutin and the Area Spring Games in April held in Cape Girardeau.

To all those who played a role, thank you. Your donation of time and money is appreciated, and for the past four years you've helped make lifelong memories for many Special Olympic athletes in our state. Sure, the games are nice. But competing isn't the sole focus of the games. It's about having an opportunity to participate. Having a chance to connect with friends. Having a chance to feel special.