By Diane Glidewell
dglidewell@jacksonprogress-argus.com

The bowling team from Jackson had the opportunity to compete in the Winter Special Olympics in Marietta over the weekend of January 15-16. After practicing and training with their volunteer coaches for several months, the young athletes were eager for the opportunity to compete and to enjoy a special weekend away from home.

T.K. Horton brought home the gold with a first place medal. Zaritin Passamore earned a second place medal. Brandon Cox achieved a third place medal, and Jamell Watson took a fourth place finish. Both Jessica Short and Ken Cottingham were able to bring home fifth place medals, and Alex Maddox finished in sixth place.

Chris Miller, Crystal Mink, Sarah Murphey, and Anquavous Griffin are also part of the Jackson bowling team and practiced to compete but were unable to attend the Winter Olympics this year.

The volunteer chaperones and coaches who gave up their time so that these children could be a part of this team and have the experience of competing included Jonathan Norman, Howard Fagan, David Davenport, Dan Autry, Wendy Williamson, Kendra Knauer, and Patti Duffy.

“I want to thank Chicken Run and Subway for donating the food for the weekend. It was delicious,” said Patti Duffy. “Also, I would like to thank Mike and Jeanette [Riley] for putting the final touch on the uniforms. They finally have on them that we are from Butts County.”

All of the athletes had a great time, and athletes, chaperones, and parents proclaimed the event a success.