More than 100 students representing Liberty and Long counties, and Fort Stewart competed in the Special Olympics May 6 at Liberty Independent Troop Park’s track.

Organizer Debbie Tomkiewicz said about 50 volunteers from post and the community helped make the event successful for participants.
She said athletes competed in the 25-meter walk, 50-meter run, 100-meter dash, wheelchair race, softball throw and tennis ball throw.

The schools that participated were Taylors Creek Elementary, Waldo Pafford Elementary, Frank Long Elementary, Liberty Elementary, Midway Middle School, Snelson-Golden Middle School, Lewis Frasier Middle School, Bradwell Institute, Liberty County High School, Smiley Elementary, Long County Middle School, Long County High School and Diamond Elementary.

Liberty County School System Superintendent Dr. Vayla Lee was the keynote speaker, addressing the student athletes. The Bradwell JROTC presented the colors and Brother Gabe Gill gave the inspirational message.

“These Special Olympic games allow them to compete with each other in a friendly atmosphere where they are cheered and congratulated on their accomplishments no matter how big or small,” Tomkiewicz said.
She is the Liberty County adaptive PE teacher and said the group also hosts a bowling tournament in December each year on Fort Stewart.

“I work with these students throughout the entire school year,” she said. “I enjoy teaching them to not let their disabilities get in the way of anything they want to accomplish.”