The second annual Special Olympics Regional Swim Meet was hosted at the Owensboro Healthpark in late April. The competition welcomed seven teams, including two from Louisville, for a total of nearly 100 swimmers from across Kentucky.

More than 20 local athletes proudly represented the Daviess County Water Rockets.

“Our athletes began practicing at the YMCA at the beginning of this year, largely due to the support of Independence Bank,” Water Rockets Head Coach Bruce Thomas shared. “Their monetary contribution has helped us pay for weekly time in the pool and also offset some costs for our families. We felt like this was the perfect fit because of their community mindfulness. We also appreciate the many volunteers who are donating their time to spend the day with us. I encourage anyone who may be interested in helping to come watch – then decide if you want additional information on how to get involved. It is infectious to see the joy on the athlete’s faces when it’s time to reward them with ribbons.”

All participants were eligible to compete at State in May.

Also in April, prior to the swim meet, the Special Olympics Area 1 Regional Track and Field event was held at Calloway County High School. The Independence Bank Murray team showed their support by volunteering in the staging area and starting line for the track events.

Special Olympics Kentucky would not exist today and could not have been created without the time, energy and dedication of more than 8,000 Kentucky volunteers, nearly 1,900 coaches, 250 law enforcement and 735 health professionals who dedicate their time to serve our state’s children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Special Olympics Kentucky supports more than 11,300 athletes with intellectual disabilities in the state by offering training and competition in 15 sports.

Additional information can be read online at soky.org.