By:  Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

The Indiana Special Olympics were held June 7-9 at Terre Haute, presented by Duke Energy. Approximately 2,100 athletes participated in the games. The Summer Games were held at the Hulman Center, as the athletes, families, coaches, partners, volunteers came together to celebrate the start of the 55th year for the Indiana Summer Olympics.

Approximately 30 to 40 athletes and volunteers from Washington County were in attendance, including leader Ray Owens, Deanna Cecil and photographer Doyle Adams.

This year's theme, “A Journey to Your Heart,”  was inspired by the Athlete Leadership Conference.

Washington Co. is in Area 2, which also includes Bartholomew, Brown, Clark, Crawford, Floyd, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Orange, Scott, and Switzerland counties. The theme, “A Journey to Your Heart,” inspired by the Athlete Leadership Conference.

The summer games included Bocco, Bowling, Cycling, Powerlifting, Track and Field, and Volleyball just to name a few of the events. The events are described as a celebration of courage, joy, and the athletes’ remarkable journey with Special Olympics Indiana.

An event leader stated, “As the games concluded, the athletes of Washington Co. and their peers from across Indiana return home, not with the spoils of war, but with the riches of experience, friendship, and memories that will last a lifetime. The Special Olympics Indiana Summer Games continue to be a beacon of hope and powerful reminder that the true victory lies in the heart of every competitor.”