Forty-one athletes from Fayette County participated in the State Special Olympics Winter Games in Marietta January 19-21.

The power lifting team, which trains at World’s Gym in Peachtree City, collected 11 gold medals. They competed in bench press, dead lift, and an overall combo lift. John Butler, Michael Crofton and Tyson Smith all swept their weight divisions, receiving three gold medals each. Eddie Griffin earned a gold in the bench press and combo lift, and a silver in the dead lift. David Gray earned three bronze medals in his weight division. Mike Stookesbury coaches the power lifting team.

In rhythmic gymnastics, Lani DeMello earned four gold medals. Her scores for the ball and for the ribbon competition were both over an 8.5. Kimberly Ware earned four bronze medals. Ana DeMello coaches the gymnasts.

The floor hockey team competed in three games in one day to earn their gold medals. Team members were Jonathan Brown, Danielle Coholich, Dylan Collins, Justin Holcombe, Michelle Huff, Cory LaMonde, Allison Romano, Kirsten Simon, Devin Camp, Mitchell Camp, Stephen Simon and Zach White. Individual floor hockey skills participant Johnny Brown brought home a gold medal; Phillip Evans received a silver; and Amber Tino and Soren Wilkins each earned bronze medals. Floor hockey coaches are Pam Allen, Tom LaMonde and Robin Camp.

The basketball skills team competed in four games on the way to the silver medal. Team members include Paulette Bass, Elena Dukes, Debbie Fogg, Judy Montague, Scottie Moore, Cynthia Scarborough, Scotty Smith, Glenn Terry, Shannon Waldrop and Lisa Wilson. Individual basketball skills competitors Joey Martin and Ethan Harris each took home gold medals. Heather Brant and Kori Capers earned bronze medals, and Libby Chestnut won a fourth. Nick Harris, Mary Morris, Sam Morris, Kathy Padia and Anita Godbee coached the basketball competitors.

In bowling, Brittni New took home the gold in her division, while Rachel Booker and Stephen Ochoa both received silver medals, and Owen Apfel got the bronze. Lori Ochoa and Cheryl Laporte served as bowling coaches.

Fayette County Special Olympics serves over 200 special-needs athletes of all ages. To volunteer or make a donation, contact Debbie Parrish 770-716-4320.

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