Special Olympics Summer Classic Continues Across Lincoln

By: Bill Steckis Email

Updated: Mon 7:27 AM, Aug 13, 2012

Click HERE to Read More About Nebraska's Special Olympics

Over 1300 athletes took part in the Special Olympics of Nebraska Sports Classic.

"I won a Gold Medal," said Special Olympics Athlete Blake Thomas. He competed in soccer and bocce.

Around 450 volunteers are needed to make the event a success.

"Oh they love it. It's a long summer it was hot for practicing but they love to come out and compete and get their medals and ribbons," said Louise Warnsholz of Seward who volunteers to help her son compete.

"They like to get after it. You will see some good competition. Some of them really want to get after it," said Curt Nelson who is a Bocce Coach in Seward.

It's not just soccer for this city-wide event. Bocce, Bowling, Golf, and Softball create a chance to compete.

Volunteers say it's as rewarding as a goal is for one of the athletes.

"It's nice to give back to the community and they seem like they really need the help," said volunteer Lance Hiebner.

"We just wanted to come out here and have some fun and give back to the community a little and watch these guys achieve their goals and just be the best they can be," added volunteer Seth Barkley.

Striving for gold, a precious metal, but it can't compete with the precious moments from this week's competition.