In January, local Master Special Olympics athletes participated in the Georgia Special Olympics Winter Games in Atlanta, taking part in bowling, skating and basketball skills contests.

“I was so proud of our team,” said LaTrelle Cawthon, coordinator for the Newton County Special Olympics team. “Each athlete competed hard and lived up to the Special Olympics motto: Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me brave in the attempt.”

Cawthon said the families were helpful in making sure all the athletes made it to their correct venues and were wonderful cheerleaders.

“The weekend was filled with laughter and fun. All involved enjoyed socializing and making new friends,” Cawthon said. “Newton County athletes broke it down Friday night at the annual kick off dance.”