KAILUA-KONA — More than 120 athletes participated in the Special Olympics West Hawaii Regional Area Games at Old Kona Airport Park on Saturday.
Athletes came from all over the island to compete in soccer and bocce ball.
“It was competitive, the athletes had a lot of fun and we gave out a lot of ribbons,” said West Hawaii area director Sharon Yong.
The next step for the Special Olympians is the state games, which will be held next month on Oahu. More than 400 athletes and coaches from across the state are expected to attend the event, which wraps up the summer season.
Yong credited a committed group of volunteers for helping the fun-filled afternoon go off without a hitch.
“We were so blessed to have so many people who were able to come and help us put on this event — from set up to score keeping and tear down,” Yong said. “Volunteers are what keeps us going.”
For more information to find out how to participate or volunteer, visit www.sowh.org or email specialolympicswh@gmail.com.