Special Olympics athletes on a roll in Gastonia

Schools from across the county joined forces at George Pappas'Liberty Lanes in Gastonia Thursday morning with one goal in mind: To bring joy to those with special needs.

Special Olympics Gaston County kicked off its 2019 Fall Games in bowling, featuring 110 athletes from over 10 elementary, middle and independent schools.

Fall games first-timer Megan Adams, a 12-year-old independent athlete, enjoys the challenge of knocking down as many pins as possible with her team and the reward of a cheering audience.

"[Just] all the crowds and all the people cheering for everybody," Adams said.

Outside of the fall games, Cramerton Middle student Abbie Courtney stays active through soccer and volleyball, but bowling sticks out to her because the team effort brings glee to her and her friends.

"I thinks bowling is fun for my school. I help my teammates and help my classmates," Courtney said.

Courtney's mother, Lori Dages, believes the fall games is an important celebration opportunity for the children.

"They don't get to go on regular field trips. It's just an opportunity for them to get out and have a good time," Dages said.

After two games, or two hours of bowling, volunteers tally up the scores and hand out ribbons to the athletes.

High school students and adults get their shot at spares and strikes Friday morning at Liberty Lanes and Textile Lanes in Belmont. Over 250 athletes will be split between the two alleys.

Special Olympics Gaston County administers year-round athletic competition in numerous Olympic sports to enrich the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

You can reach Gavin Stewart at 704-869-1819 or on Twitter @GavinGazette.

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