Last week at the first ever Special Olympics National Games, held at Iowa State University, several local athletes placed in numerous events in the aquatics, track and field, bocce, and softball competitions. Local Special Olympic athlete winners include: Steve Ackerman of Norco, Doug Gilder of Hahnville, Colette Griffin of Cut Off, Todd Naquin of Galliano, Ron Davis of Hahnville, and Doug Mouton of Luling.

Outstanding performances were made by many of these competitions. Steve Ackerman won two silver medals in the aquatic competition and Doug Gilder won a gold in the long jump competition and a bronze in the 100 m. run. Todd Naquin won a gold medal in the shottput. Also, Ron Davis and Doug Mouton were on the team Louisiana softball team that placed first. Last, but not certainly not least, Colette Griffin was a member of the gold medal bocce team and won a silver medal in the bocce doubles event. All athletes from the local area won a combined total of four gold medals, three silver medals, one bronze medal, and four ribbons (given to those who placed 4th-8th).

These athletes were among 80 athletes from around the state who were selected to represent Louisiana at this inaugural event. In addition to the athletes, about 60 coaches, friends and family members from Louisiana made the trip to Ames where more than 3,000 athletes represented all 50 states and converged with 8,000 volunteers, 2,000 coaches and official delegates, and 12,000 family members and friends of athletes.

Special Olympics Louisiana is proud of these and all team Louisiana athletes who represented our state so well. Combined, team Louisiana brought home 32 gold, 26 silver, 20 bronze medals, and 15 ribbons.