YORK, Pa. — Athletes across the Commonwealth are going for gold, as they compete in the 4th Annual Indoor Winter Games. More than 500 athletes are in York for the games competing in sports like floorball, floor hockey, bowling, figure skating, and speed skating.
“It’s fun. It’s my first year playing floorball," said James Caldwell from Butler County.
Athletes who came to York said they were there to have a good time with their friends and teammates, and to win their competitions.
“That’s the thing I wanted to do when I started Special Olympics: to enjoy myself and to be competitive," said Patrick Wiese, who has been competing with the Special Olympics for nearly 16 years.
“Once you put that uniform on them, there’s a spark in them and they are out there to compete," said Ann Salomon, one of Patrick's coaches.
Throughout the first day, the athletes were cheered on by friends and family in the stands. They were also encouraged on by the Special Olympics' unified partners who competed alongside them.
Sean Fraker, who works as a unified partner for the Special Olympics, said the games open doors for people who want to compete.
“Every single athlete who goes out there has a story to tell," said Fraker, who competed with the Special Olympic athletes in speed skating. "To have the ability for kids to have a place where they belong, no matter where they come from or who they are, it’s the best thing.”
Regardless of the final score, having fun is what matters the most.
“It’s all about having fun and cheering on the other athletes and teammates," said Celine Heffron from Montgomery County.
The Indoor Winter Games will be running through Sunday, March 3rd.