Marking forty years of Special Olympics St. Mary’s County, the Spring Games Competition was held at Leonardtown High School Wednesday, April 28. An estimated 225 athletes competed in track and field events and bocce. 

Special Olympics programs bring the fun and camaraderie of athletic competition to people of any age with mental, physical and developmental disabilities. Many athletes compete, throughout the year, at the local, district, state, national and international levels with the support of dedicated volunteers.
 
Over 400 volunteers helped escort athletes and keep the games running smoothly. Several high school students buddied-up with Olympians and over 100 from NAS Pax River donated their time. Many parents and school staff members were also very involved, offering encouragement to all participants.
 
Supportive corporate and local businesses were recognized in the opening ceremony, with Wyle receiving this year’s Gold Medal Sponsor award.   
 
For twenty years, Mary Lu Bucci has served as director of Special Olympics St. Mary’s. She told TheBAYNET.com that while a lot of effort from a lot of people goes into the planning of such a big event, “I believe in it and I love it.” She said her son, Russell, like many others that aren’t able to participate in traditional organized sports, really benefits from his participation in Special Olympics.
 
Regardless of ability level, every athlete is afforded what Bucci calls, “a chance to shine.” Volunteers make it happen. A special guide rope enabled a blind athlete to race, held by volunteers that cheered him on as he beamed with pride.
 
A lot of high-fives and hugs support the Special Olympics Oath: “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.”
 
The next event will be the Special Olympics Maryland Mid-Summer Classic, featuring sailing, kayaking and volleyball competitions and held at St. Mary’s College the last weekend in July. For more information on Special Olympics programs, events, sponsorship or volunteer opportunities, contact Mary Lu Bucci at 301-373-3469