Special Olympics event is a special day

More than 300 athletes took part in the Southeast Area Special Olympics Spring Games on Saturday at the Central Junior High track complex.

The event was co-sponsored by the Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department and attracted competitors representing 25 agencies.

In addition to track and field events, Olympictown just outside the track provided the athletes more activities and opportunities to win prizes.

"We had about as many volunteers as we had athletes," said Penny Williams, the director of the Southeast Area Special Olympics. "We had a huge crowd."

Volunteers from the Southeast Missouri State fraternities and sororities assist with the event.

Athletes from the regional event can qualify for state competition at the University of Missouri.

"There is not a more rewarding experience," Williams said, "because everyone deserves an opportunity to compete, to wear their uniform and get on a bus and go to a state championship. Everyone should have that opportunity and Special Olympics provides that opportunity."