Special Olympian to compete at USA Games
By Heather Ruenz
SLN staff
Steve Power, a Special Olympian from Elkhorn, said he’s looking forward to competing at the national USA Games in Seattle, but doesn’t appear to be too worked up about it.
“It’s my first time going to nationals and I don’t know anyone else that’s gone,” the 21-year-old said following a recent practice. “I’m not really nervous.”
He’ll compete in four track and field events at nationals with Team Wisconsin: the 100-meter run, the 200-meter run, the 4 x 400-meter running relay with the Walworth Ice team and the mini javelin throw. The opening ceremony is today, July 1.
So, how does he think he’ll do at nationals?
“I think I’ll do OK,” he said. “My favorite event is the 4 x 400 because I get to run.”
Power and his twin brother, Nick, started in Special Olympics in 2006 and have been competing since. Both of them have gone to the State Games in track and field every year.
Their mom, Cheryl, said Special Olympics is an important part of their lives.
“Even when they were at Lakeland School and were nonverbal, they were encouraged to do track. Special Olympics is pretty much their life now and it’s been amazing,” she said.
For more on Power, including comments from head track and field coach Carol Prchal, see the June 28 and 29 issues of Southern Lakes Newspapers’ publications.
