Champaign County Celebrates Multi-Sport Achievements at State Special Olympics

Champaign County had an impressive showing at the State Special Olympics held on June 28-29, 2024, with 18 athletes competing across three sports: bowling, volleyball, and weight lifting.
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Bowling Team: The bowling team, participating for the first time, had a fantastic experience. Five athletes competed on Friday, two on Saturday, and one on Sunday.

​Alfredo Gutierrez, a coach for the team, shared, "It was the greatest feeling to have most of our athletes participate in the Opening Ceremonies and thoroughly enjoy the experience! Seeing the end of the Torch Run and the lighting of the Olympic Flame in the Cauldron was the highlight for most of our athletes."

Results:

• Friday: Donnie McCain won a Gold Medal, Phil McCain took Silver, Willie Leist placed fourth, and Roy Coolbaugh and Larry Farmer both placed fifth.
• Saturday: Beth Coolidge and Trevor Foster both won Gold Medals.
• Sunday: Mandy Clay also secured a Gold Medal.

A special thanks to Coach Kurt Scott and his granddaughter, high school bowler Jasmin, for their support and guidance.

Weight Lifting Team: The weightlifting team had an outstanding performance with six athletes competing.
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Alfredo Gutierrez expressed his pride, stating, "What an amazing experience to have 6 impressive showings from our weight lifters. All of our lifters performed incredibly well and gave it their all. Our lifters work out twice a week year-round for this incredible event. They were ready and hyped up."

Results:

• Saturday: Kaelin Lewis finished 3rd overall in her division, and Ellen Petty took 2nd in her division.
• Sunday:
  • Zachery Cramer and Conner Jackson, both first-time state participants, placed 4th in their respective divisions.
  • Michael Gutierrez came in 1st in his division and set a personal record with a 165 lbs bench press.
  • Levi Custer finished 3rd overall and set a personal record with a 143 lb bench press 

Volleyball Team: The volleyball team, represented by Amanda Wilber, Jessica Dunlavy, Colton Dunn, Andrew Wagner, Dustin Knowles, and Jakob Pullins, competed at the state Summer Games at OSU.

Alfredo Gutierrez highlighted their progress stating, "This year, the team has excelled in their skills, including their

​serves and returns. The team competed in two state games, taking 4th place to complete the season. They had a great time and are looking forward to competing again in 2025!"
Champaign County athletes demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and sportsmanship at the State Special Olympics, making the community proud.