Sandpoint Special Olympians primed for state competition
<p>The Sandpoint Special Olympics team, pictured at the opening ceremonies of the recent regional games. Pictured front row, from left to right: Lillian Campbell, Tammy Shivel, Robert (Lee) Hudson and Robin Dilworth (wearing the scarf). Middle row: Fran Guttin, Michelle Couldry, Brandon Beck and and Chris Painter. Back row: Patrick Beck, Gina Beck, Natasha Freeberg and John Painter. (Courtesy photo)</p>
SANDPOINT — A host of athletes from the Sandpoint Special Olympics team had strong showings recently at the Regional Winter Games in Kellogg, with eight now focusing on the state meet starting Saturday in Sun Valley.
Events included cross country skiing, snow shoeing and slalom and giant slalom, with Sandpoint claiming a handful of wins.
In Snowshoe, John Painter finished first in the 800 meters and second in the 400 meters. Robin Dilworth finished first in the 400 meters and second in the 200 meters during her heats. Michelle Couldry finished second in the 400 and third in the 200 meters, Natasha Freeberg won the 100 meters and took third in the 50 meters, and Brady Scrimsher finished first in the 50 meters and third in the 25 meters to round out the snow shoers.
“It’s always exciting,” said coach Fran Guttin. “They work really, really hard. To be able to compete with such joy and exuberance is always exciting.”
In Nordic Skiing, Tammy Shivel won the 100 and 50 meter races, Robert Lee Hudson finished third in both the 100 and 50 meters, and Lillian Campbell finished second in the 50 and 100 meters.
Brandon Beck was the lone downhill skier in action, taking first in the slalom and giant slalom novice division.
The team now turns its attention to the State Olympic Games in Sun Valley on Saturday, where eight athletes will be representing Sandpoint.
“I just want to see our team rock it,” said Guttin. “Because they always do.”
A fundraiser for the team will be held on March 15 at Sandpoint City Beach. Registration is at 10 a.m., and participants will jump in the water at noon. There will be contests, prizes and raffles.
Sandpoint Special Olympis is always looking for coaches and donations to help fund the team. For more information, contact Chris Painter at (208) 512-4768.