Rain doesn't dampen mood at state Special Olympics opening ceremony

Rain fell outside the Osage Centre Friday evening, but it didn't dampen the spirits of the estimated 830 athletes and coaches gathered for the opening ceremonies of the Special Olympics Missouri 2011 State Outdoor Championships.

Many of the athletes danced and clapped their hands during the musical portion of the festivities, include a performance by 2011 Cape Central High School graduate Brodrick Twiggs. Twiggs sang three numbers, including his cover of the Black Eyed Peas hit "I've Got a Feeling."

Special Olympics Missouri public relations coordinator Mandi Steward, who is in her sixth year working with the organization, said dancing is a favorite activity of the athletes, which makes Saturday evening's dance at the Southeast Missouri State University Student Recreational Center a highlight of the weekend for them.

"They love to dance," said Steward. "They have no inhibitions. They will teach you a lot about letting go of all that and just getting out there and letting loose and having a good time."

Faune Riggin, KZIM radio personality and avid Special Olympics supporter, served as emcee of the opening ceremonies, which had been schedule to be held outdoors at the grandstand behind the A. C. Brase Arena building but were moved to the Osage Center as storms approached the Cape Girardeau area.

The program included the traditional parade of athletes, led by a detail from the Knights of Columbus. A small band from Jackson High School played music to accompany the procession.

Lisa Reitzel sang the national anthem as the colors were presented by a Missouri National Guard detail. Cape Girardeau Mayor Harry Rediger then welcomed the visitors to the city and the games.

"Tonight and this weekend, it's all about the athletes," said Rediger.

Sgt. Adam Glueck of the Cape Girardeau Police Department ran into the auditorium carrying the Special Olympics Flame of Hope and circled the room before bring the torch to the stage. Then new city Parks and Recreation Director Julia Thompson declared the games open.

Thompson's declaration was only a formality, since competition had already begun earlier in the day. About 130 golfers competed at the Jaycee Municipal Golf Course, and 30 more athletes competed in tennis at the Redhawks Tennis Complex.

Since the primary emphasis in Special Olympics is not necessarily on winning but on competing, Special Olympics Missouri doesn't announce or release the names of winners, Steward said.

The softball competition at the Shawnee Recreational Complex is the focus of Saturday's games. About 470 of the roughly 630 athletes are in town to play softball. There are various levels of competition including regulation play, coach pitch, tee ball, individual skills and team skills.

Play begins at 11:30 a.m.

Athletes enjoy lunch at the Osage Center and visit exhibits at "Victory Village", where they can collect gifts from sponsors.

"Victory Village is a lot about having games, having fun, having some down time," Steward said.

Competitors can relax and enjoy the water at Cape Splash Saturday afternoon before Saturday evening's bingo, dinner and dance.

The competition is scheduled to conclude Sunday morning with the finish of softball tournament play.

Pertinent address:

1625 N. Kingshighway, Cape Girardeau, MO

1157 S. West End Blvd., Cape Girardeau, MO