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CLYMER, NY (Erie News Now) — Light the torch, and let the games begin.
The Special Olympics hit the slopes at Peek’n Peak Resort.
Students from General McClane, Jefferson Elementary and even adult athletes competed in the events.
“Special Olympics days like today are as much for the athletes as for the volunteers that are here,” ski coach Ami Iaquinta said. “It’s just to learn about what the human body and mind is capable of. If we try, we can really do pretty much whatever we set out to accomplish.”
From beginner to advanced, the competitions consisted of snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding.
“It’s so much fun. I love every single one of them,” ski instructor David Price said. “They’re energetic. They’re happy to be here, and it’s it’s a blast.”
Times and scores were added up, and winners were announced.
Even though consistent rain made the slopes slick all morning, smiles were everywhere.
Lots of them.
“I enjoyed going skiing for Special Olympics,” skier Robert Jones said. “Special Olympics is the best thing to do for me.”
“You can’t not feel happy. You can’t not feel joy. You just want everyone to succeed,” Iaquinta said. “When they do, it’s like you’ve succeeded as well.”
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