HERMISTON, Ore.-The Bowling Regionals for Special Olympics Hermiston/Pendleton #510 were held November 7-8 in Hermiston and Pendleton.
“This is a joyous occasion, the conclusion of our bowling season,” said Kristi Smalley, Fundraising Manager for Special Olympics Hermiston-Pendleton. “These athletes have been practicing for several months, and today is the pinnacle. We look forward to watching our athletes in action.”
About 40 athletes were joined by coaches, family members, Special Olympics volunteers, and the community at Desert Lanes in Hermiston on November 7 for the start of the tournament.
American Legion Post 37 presented the colors, and Marti Plum, a former student of one of the coaches, sang the National Anthem. McKayla Thompson, an athlete who also competed at Regionals, led the athlete oath.
“We’re very fortunate to have a sponsorship from Good Shepherd Health Care System, an organization that always puts patients first,” Smalley told the crowd before the athletes gathered for a group photo and the bowling began.
Special Olympics Bowling Regionals
When the bowling started, the enthusiasm was palpable as cheers periodically erupted across the lanes following a particularly good shot, and high-fives and hugs were freely given amongst friends.
“I’m bowling pretty well,” said Julie Benusen, of Hermiston, who has been bowling for almost thirty years, but was competing in her first Special Olympics bowling event. “I love to make strikes, but the most important thing is being around my team and having fun.”
The themes of fun and friendship were echoed by many at Regionals, as athletes did their best, putting months of practice and preparation to use on the lanes.
“This was my first year for Special Olympics and it’s been good so far,” said Sergio Cruz, who usually averages between 70 and 90 a game. “I do my best to score a little better every game, but what I like the most about bowling is getting to meet new friends.”
Special Olympics Hermiston-Pendleton Local Program #510
Special Olympics Hermiston-Pendleton Local Program #510 serves athletes in Hermiston and Pendleton, as well as Athena, Boardman, Echo, Heppner, Irrigon, Milton-Freewater, Pilot Rock, Stanfield and Umatilla.
“Sports mean a lot,” said Amber Ruiz-Burleson, Local Program Coordinator with Special Olympics Hermiston-Pendleton. “They offer our athletes the friendship, confidence and inclusivity they may not get in other programs and allow them to make friends and build skills year-round.”
Covering such a large part of Northeast Oregon, Regionals were split into two groups, with athletes competing over two days in Hermiston and Pendleton in a virtual format, meaning the other athletes one is competing against may not be physically present, but might be bowling the next day.
Regionals continued from Quaking Aspen Lanes in Pendleton on November 8, as 38 athletes joined by coaches and volunteers competed.
Athletes bowl a two-game series at Regionals, and scores are submitted to the Special Olympics state office before awards are presented.
