Special Olympics bowlers, skiers and snowshoers from Thompson returned from the provincial organization’s Winter Games on Feb. 24-26 with fistfuls of medals.
Ramsey Beardy got gold in 500-metre cross country skiing, silver in 2.5-kilometre and gold in one-km cross country. Nolynn Redhead earned gold in the 2.5 km, silver in the 500-metre and bronze in one-km. Cory Beardy got bronze in the 500-metre and 2.5-km and silver in the one-km category. Ryan Miles won gold in 500-metre and one-km races and silver in 2.5-km, while Fate Frank received gold in 2.5-km and silver in both 500-metre and one-km events.
William Hart earned one gold medal and two bronze in downhill alipne skiing.
In snowshoeing, Amee earned a gold and a silver, Michael received one gold and two silver and Shane Wood earned one gold medal and one bronze.
Thompson Stars bowling team members also came home with medals. Mervin Linklater won gold, Todd Bentley received silver and Brandon McDonald captured a bronze.
Thompson Special Olympics volunteer Marlene Enberg was also recognized during the games for all her efforts by Special Olympics Manitoba.
“Congratulations to Marlene from all the athletes and the coaches.Thanks for all her dedication and commitment to our athletes and our volunteer dream team of Sandi, Brenda and Dave,” said Sherrie Benner, who made the trip as bowling team coach alongside fellow coaches Crystal, Steven and Scott. “It was a weekend of excellent athletic performances, lifetime friendship bonds with other athletes and great sportsmanship. Special thanks to Wendell and Maple Bus Lines for an incredible voyage and amazing hospitality.”
It was the first out-of-town competition for local Special Olympics athletes in three years due to cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic
