By Scott Roblin

Special Olympics athletes reflect on a powerful weekend

Jul 10, 2017 | 11:18 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Close to 1,000 special needs athletes got to live out their Olympic dreams over the weekend, with the conclusion of the 2017 Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games in Medicine Hat on Sunday.

Final events were held in a number of disciplines on Sunday, including the highly anticipated final heats of swimming at the Family Leisure Centre pool and track and field events at Crescent Heights High.

Hundreds of medals were handed out over the three days, with competitors, coaches, families, and support staff celebrating the efforts of the esteemed athletes.

Chris Dary captained Strathcona County to a bronze medal in soccer, and said the Special Olympics mean a lot to everyone involved.

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“Everybody’s special and all that,” said Dary. “And, it just gives us a chance to go out there, try different Olympic things and sports, and all that.”

The Games wrapped up on Sunday afternoon with the closing ceremonies at the Family Leisure Centre, which featured the passing of the flame to Calgary, who will host the Special Olympics Alberta Winter Games in 2019.

West Central’s Luke Stelter had an exceptional final few days in Medicine Hat, winning three medals in athletics including a gold in shot put.

He said an event like the Special Olympics sheds a light on the accomplishments and abilities of those who deal with special needs.

“Most people with disabilities don’t get to be respected,” said Stelter. “To have our own Olympics is just great.”

Sunday’s closing ceremonies also revealed the host of the next Alberta Summer Games, which will be held in 2021 in Strathcona County.

Athletes celebrated with live music and plenty of emotions, as they packed up the buses to return home.

And in Stelter’s words, the athletes took away a powerful message from the weekend.

“Be your own person and try your best.”