Timothy Todd Cook - Russellville, AR Loana Lynn Cooper - Barnwell, SC Ashley Ann Cosby - Shreveport, LA Denise Lynette Costin - Conye rs, GA Kristin Lynn Cothren - Paragould, AR Dwayne S. Cox - Westminster, CO Michael Cox - Searcy, AR Special Athletes Compete In Special Olympics T he morning broke on April 21 as more than 100 Harding student volunteers woke up to an exciting day of service. Caring volunteers from all over White County, along with athletes from 12 nearby cities, met to enjoy a day set aside for the Special Olympics track and field events. Sally Paine, the area director for Special Olympics and a teacher at The Sunshine School in Searcy, said the program is geared for year-round training and sports competition. This year marked the beginning of Special Olympics winter games in Arkansas. The Sunshine School and a Bald Knob school combined to compete in Little Rock for the floor hockey event. There are eleven official summer games and six winter games currently in the United States. Dedication and sacrifice were two undeniable factors involved in the Special Olympics. Those characteristics not only described the coaches and teachers who worked daily with the special education students, but also the athletes who kept trying despite their handicaps. More than 100 volunteers added a special touch to the games. Students helped in the registration of all competitors as well as timing races, and simply being at the finish line for a victory high five and a hug. Paine said Harding's support has been a key factor in the success of the games. "I cannot do it without those volunteers," said Paine. Each athlete gave more than any volunteer could ever give. Pam Peachey, a junior from Jonesboro, Ark., was able to help with last year's Special Olympics softball throw. She loved being a part of the event because every child could participate. She remembered a small boy in a wheelchair who was not even sure which way he was supposed to throw t he ball. However, excitement was written all over his face. David Ward, a senior from Searcy, said that the finish lines were the most touching place to be. Ward said a first place expression was on every face, whether the child crossed the lines first or last. Ward encouraged all to volun - teer saying .that "it will be the most rewarding two hours of service you'll ever do." - Kristin Webb THE THRILL OF VICTORY. The winner of both a first and second place ribbon awaits for the pinning of a third ribbon for the days events. Athletes at the Special Olympics never go home without a ribbon or two. Photo by Ken Bissell. Christopher E. Crabb - Brea , CA Daniel Mack Craft - Tul sa, OK Andrew R. Craven - Hibbing, MN Carrie L. Crawford - Grinnell , IA Cathy Jo Crenshaw - Bald Knob, AR Elizabeth Ann Crockett - Rose Bud , AR Sandra Marianne Crouch - Glen Rose, TX Sophomores 177
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