The North Carolina Special Olympics held two bocce tournaments this past weekend where nine athletes from Rowan County won gold medals.
The tournaments were in Fayetteville and Charlotte on October 24. Together there were 450 athletes, 150 coaches and more than 400 volunteers, family and supporters.
The Rowan County medalists are:
– Teresa English
– Jennifer Craig
– Jamey Bridges
– Mary Medlin
– Kevin Collins
– Rick Costello
– Andy Towell
– David Rhodes
– Cory Kyslinger
Athletes who also participated are:
– Patrick Mohwish
– Eric Seawell
– Randy Ewing
– Candice Boger
– Zane Francis
– Travis Stirewalt
– Ron Kent
– Vickie Campbell
– Janice Miller
– Todd Morgan
The team has been practicing at Ellis Park with their first-year coach, Angela Lee.
One bocce team, consisting of five athletes and two bocce doubles teams competed against some of the divisions’ best athletes, a statement said.
“I am proud of each and every one of you for your efforts, dedication and sportsmanship,” Coach Lee said.
Other coaches included Leann Jernigan, Nancy Collins, Roy Collins and Kimberly Hadden.
Linda Broadway is the special olympics coordinator.
“Her guidance was priceless to this first year coach. I sincerely thank her for her help and look forward to a strong year in 2010,” Lee said.