Newark teens win at Special Olympics

The Summer State Special Olympic Games were held in Rochester, New York, June 12-15. The games were opened with a magnificent sky-diving demonstration and a beautiful fireworks display. The participating areas, from all over the state, were escorted onto Frontier Field, cheered on by their many fans.

Students from Newark High School were chosen to participate in the 1997 games. Matt Addona, Travis Fish, and Beth O'Neil participated in the track and field events; John DeCann, Gilbert Pineda, and Scott Van Liew (pictured) were in bowling.

All athletes made a fine showing. Addona received a silver medal in the 100 meter dash and a fourth-place ribbon in the 200 meter. Fish received a fourth-place ribbon in the 100 meter and a fifth place in the softball throw. O'Neil captured a silver medal in the 100 meter dash and a gold medal in the 200 meters.

The bowlers were equally successful. DeCann earned a gold medal in the singles event; Pineda earned a silver in the singles; Van Liew captured a bronze, also in the singles event. The team of DeCann and Pineda earned a silver medal in the team event; Van Liew and an athlete from Canandaigua won the bronze. Newark High student Lori Hattendorf competed in gymnastics with the Monroe County team.

The games concluded with a victory dance, held at the Rochester Institute of Technology. The Newark Students were accompanied by their teacher-coach, Diane Gyle.

The 1998 games will also be held in Rochester and volunteers are always welcome.

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