Hood River Special Olympic athletes, Grand Marshals of the July 4th Parade, competed in the State Games in Hillsboro on June 29 and 30 and July 1.

John Owre earned a Silver Medal in 50-meter walk and fifth place in shot-put in his division. Bill Dockham took fifth in the 100-meter dash and fourth in shot-put and Christopher Garo took sixth in 100-meter dash and third in shot-put.

Mariah Langer earned a Bronze medal in 50-meter dash and fifth in softball throw and Katie Tager won her first Bronze medal in softball throw, and a Bronze in the 50-meter walk. Billi Cook placed a sixth in the 50-meter run.

Coach Jeri Rector said, “Their courage and commitment to these games are an inspiration to all of us.” Co-coaches Kurt and Becky Van Betavia agreed. To qualify for the State Games the athletes had to participate in the Regional games held in Gresham June 19.