Lyonel Doherty, Times Chronicle
Two teams of South Okanagan athletes are hoping to “rock” and “strike” the competition at the Special Olympics BC Winter Games in Kamloops this week.
In the meantime, Tim Hortons in Oliver and Osoyoos are hosting a fundraiser by selling Special Olympics donuts with all proceeds going to the South Okanagan club.
Coordinator Lee Chic said some local VIPs including Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff and Oliver RCMP Sgt. Don Wrigglesworth will be participating in the fundraiser. Members of Osoyoos Credit Union are also volunteering this weekend.
Chic said a team of bowlers and curlers are competing in Kamloops and hope to do well enough to represent the region at the national games next year.
“We have some really excellent athletes, or they wouldn’t have advanced this far.”
She noted some are very dedicated, adding that one suffered a pinched nerve in his shoulder and insisted on bowling with his other hand.
“He’s fine now. He’s so excited you’d think he was going to the Oscars or something.”
Special Olympian Travis Block said he chose bowling as a sport because he is good at it and enjoys seeing his friends at the alley.
His best score is 207.
Block pointed out that Special Olympics teaches him to be a good person.
“Special Olympics teaches its athletes to be the best they can be,” he pointed out.
Chic said they set a standard for all of their athletes who are expected to demonstrate professional behaviour.
“Even when they practice, we don’t allow any stamping of feet when they miss a shot. There’s none of that.”
Wrigglesworth has been volunteering with Special Olympics by doing weight training and stretching exercises with two of the athletes. Not only do they get physical training, they get mental training as well to build character and confidence.
Chic encourages members of the public to buy the special donuts at Tim Hortons on Feb. 3-5.
She noted the Kiwanis Club of Oliver has donated $500 to Special Olympics to help offset the cost of these competitions.
