It was perfect spring-season weather to greet the athletes and their fans Saturday for the Area 11 Special Olympics games.

Held at Hope High track field, football field and the indoor practice facility,the athletes represented sites from Hope, Prescott, Arkadelphia, Nashville and other areas from this region.

A full roster of track and field events were held including motorized racing featuring T.J. Connell and Rainbow of Challenges founding member Robin Manus.

Softball and tennis ball throwing competition was held in the Bobcat training facility while the ever-popular Bocce Ball competition was held on the Bobcat football field.

Special thanks go to all the staff and the wide array of volunteers who made the event fun and safe for all the competitors.The enthusiasm and many smiles from athletes and fans alike was infectious.

Many of the athletes will next compete in the Special Olympics Arkansas Summer Games held on May 12 and 13 at Harding University in Searcy.

In the meantime, keep an eye out in early May for such fundraisers and events such as the “Tip A Cop” promotion at Tailgaters Burger Company where proceeds from patrons “tips” go directly to Special Olympics.

The annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is also scheduled soon which is recognized as the largest public grassroots awareness campaign for Special Olympics as officers from around the State converge in Searcy for the Olympic Opening Ceremonies, bringing with them the “Flame of Hope”.