Special Olympians Brave Chilly Rain

A little rain didn't damper the spirits of athletes competing at the 2012 Special Olympics Maryland.

About 200 athletes participated in the two-day annual event that took place over the weekend, organizers said. Saturday was dedicated to aquatics, and track and field events were held on Sunday. But, due to the rain and strong winds, some of Sunday's activities were canceled.

"I had a lot of fun," said Nicholas Meade, a 26-year-old athlete, who participated in aquatics competitions.

Josh Cabral, a 21-year-old midshipman who participated as a volunteer at the event for the first time, escorted Meade. 

"It's been a great time, minus the weather," Cabral said. "It's been a humbling experience to give back to the community."

Rebecca Marchant, a 16-year-old volunteer, said her role is to help the athletes get around at the Special Olympics.

"We cheer for them and generally try to be a support," she said.

Marchant was paired up with Gregory Schieman, who competed in a softball throw and running events.

"It's been great," Marchant said. "We've been having fun. The athletes have such enthusiasm about what they do."

Lieutenant Commander Brian Sinclair, the officer representative of community service branch of Brigade of Midshipmen, also said he was glad to see the athletes having a good time.

"[The athletes] enjoyed themselves," Sinclair said. "They're out here, and they're ready to compete. The rain isn't stopping them."

Brian Holloway served as the midshipman in charge of the event. He said more than 250 midshipmen and local volunteers helped out the athletes.

"It's our most popular volunteer event," Holloway said.

The Annapolis Junior Chamber organized the civilian side of the Special Olympics, which included staging the athletes during competitions and keeping track of scores.

"Just seeing all these athletes—it's so humbling," said Cory Cosgrove, a chamber representative who helped chair the event. "To be here—even in this poor weather—has been good."