Athletes and coaches from Bethlehem Special Olympics, Northampton County, competed at the 2017 Pennsylvania State Summer Games over the first weekend in June at Penn State University.

The athletes, ages 8-54, competed in six sports, swimming, softball, basketball, artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, golf, and bowling.

The swimmers, coached by Pam Magnan and Fred Knauss, were able to compete in three individual events and one relay. Practices are held at Liberty High School, and in March, April, and May, they travel to different competitions.

“The athletes must come to eight weeks of practice to participate in a competition,” said Knauss. “My daughter is special needs and has been swimming all along. Over the years, she’s also participated in volleyball, bowling, and softball.”

Volleyball practices are held at Northeast Middle School, and softball practices are held at Broughal Middle School.

“We advertise through the schools and the community, and anyone who comes can participate at no cost, and we’re 100% funded, including competitions and clothing,” said Magnan.

At the state summer games, medals were awarded to first, second, and third place winners.