Sun-drenched spectators cheer on Special Olympians today in Girard

GIRARD

Athletes who will compete in the London Olympics say they are thrilled to be part of the spectacle. It’s no different for competitors at the Special Olympics.

“It makes me feel good and confident in myself,” said Owen Botzenhart, 13, Girard, a member of the team representing the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities in the annual competition Saturday at Arrowhead Stadium. “I think everyone has come here to see a good show.”

“I’m confident, and I’ll try my hardest,” said his fellow team member Max Jurczyk, 18, of Canfield.

The two were among 248 competitors from Mahoning, Trumbull, Columbiana, Ashtabula and Geauga counties.

Like their Olympic counterparts, the teams marched around the track in the opening ceremonies to the applause of sun-drenched spectators.

For more on the event, read Sunday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.