J.M. SIMPSON: OLYMPIANS COMPETE AT FORT LEWIS, MCCHORD >>>
David "Ben" Gross sat on a gray metal chair quietly waiting to be called forward to receive the medal he had won in a race.
"This event is just wonderful for the military community," said his mother, Michele Gross. "Many times these kids are distanced from activities, and here today they come together as a team."
That team is the Fort Lewis Tigers, and this year the team had four members on the track team and four members of the swim team.
Gross, Zachary Renn, Zachary Mattox, and Brandon Geverola comprised the track team. Christopher Mullink, Devin Eberly, Jake Mullink, and Joshua Crittenden made up the swim team. Junior Smith is the head coach, Shannon Mattox the assistant coach.
Competition took place at Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base.
For the parents and friends attending the annual Special Olympics Washington Summer Games, they offered unqualified support.
"I came to give these athletes mutual support," said Adolph Pinlac, a Fort Lewis employee.
Whether the 2,500 athletes - from all parts of the state - placed first or last, they were loudly honored for their efforts.
"I feel very good," said Geverola as he sat in the stands of the newly renovated Cowan Stadium waiting to compete in the shot put and the 100-meter dash.
"I like to win," he added with a smile.
Geverola had another reason to be proud. He carried the torch during the opening ceremonies at McChord on May 29.
"This competition is about Special Olympians competing and feeling good - that they can be winners as well," commented Brandon's mother, Maggie Geverola.
For Savon Seng, the games represented her first time working as an assistant coach for the Tigers.
"It has been really fun to be a part of this and to see these athletes succeed," she said.
The athletes and their parents could not have asked for three better days in which to compete. Sunny skies, moderate temperatures and a majestic Mount Rainier in the background provided a stunning backdrop and conditions for the competition. Just outside the stadium, family members and friends of Special Olympians could purchase souvenirs and food. Fort Lewis soldiers provided security and directions for participants and visitors. Professional demeanor with a smile characterized their actions.
"I don't know what it is," a woman commented as she bought a hot dog. "The atmosphere here this year is really, really great."
The biggest concentration of individuals was around the medals' stand. While the music to the Olympic games was played and athletes received their medals and high fives, parents, coaches and friends clapped, cheered and took photographs.
"All of this promotes self-confidence," said Jacque Felipe as she sat with her grandson, Zachary Renn.
"The value of confidence in themselves is the special gift of these games," she added.
Top Photo: Over 2500 athletes participated in the Special Olympic Washington Summer Games at Fort Lewis and McChord AFB. Eight athletes from the post competed.
Bottom Photo: Wearing the distinctive orange shirt of the Fort Lewis Tigers' Team, Special Olympian David "Ben" Gross waits to receive his medal after competing in a sprint.
Photography by J.M. Simpson
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