Weather fails to chill Special Olympians

Lucas Blattel didn't mind Saturday's chilly weather, even if it wasn't ideal for a track meet.

He preferred running in the cold conditions at Cape Central Junior High to running inside, which was the case last year for the Southeast Area Special Olympics Spring Games track and field meet.

"When I came to that backstretch, that's where I could feel the wind slowing me down," Blattel said.

Nonetheless, he cut through the wind to complete the 1,500-meter run in 6 minutes, 22 seconds.

"We were inside last year, and I think I ran a little bit better this year," he said.

The 2004 state athlete of the year in Special Olympics, Blattel was the lone competitor in the 800- and 1,500-meter runs.

"Lucas is an outstanding athlete," said Penny Williams, director of the Southeast Area Special Olympics. "He'll be a candidate for National Games and eventually for World Games. He'll be somebody to watch in the future as far as Special Olympics is concerned."

Another athlete to watch is Tim Kunz of Jackson, who captured the 100 meters Saturday by racing into the wind for a time of 14.6 seconds.

"It was kind of tough when the wind was coming," Kunz said. "I just had to try keep my momentum up and go against the wind."

He repeated the feat of covering the 100-meter backstretch to anchor the victorious VIP Industries Special Forces 400-meter relay team. Kunz teamed with David Masterson, Danny Simpson and James Truesdales for the win.

"This gives me a chance to work myself out and get my feet up to par, and work with my friends," said Kunz, a third-year participant in Special Olympics.

The annual event, hosted by the Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department, attracted more than 350 athletes. More than 500 volunteers assisted, Williams said.

"As cold as it was, I think everybody's hearts were warmed because of all the victories that these guys accomplished," Williams said. "They all did their personal bests."