GULF SHORES — The Gulf Shores Special Olympic Swim Team attended the Special Olympic Alabama State Games at Troy University.  More than 1,000 athletes and 350 coaches participated in the weekend. 

It began at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 15 with the opening ceremonies in the Trojan Arena. The ceremony included the parade of athletes, special welcomes, and the lighting of the Torch.  Swimming began at the Sports Plex at 9 a.m. on Saturday.

When the meet was completed, an awards ceremony followed. At 7 p.m. the Roarin' 20's Victory Dance began in the Arena. Closing ceremonies were held on Sunday morning. It included a memorial service for athletes who had died during the year.

The Starfish received several awards. The 25M Freestyle gold medal was won by Emily Evans and Jacob Hobbs won the bronze. The 25M Backstroke gold medal was won by Emily Evans and Jacob Hobbs. The 50M Freestyle gold medal went to Mary Johnston, Sissy Flanigan, Chad Phelps and Alex Hill. Ryan Miller took home a silver medal and Molly Owens won a 4th place ribbon.

The 50M backstroke gold medal went to Mary Johnston and Ryan Miller. Sissy Flanigan, Molly Owens, Chad Phelps and Alex Hill won silver medals.

The 4X25 Freestyle relay team of Mary Johnston, Emily Evans (with Coach Sharon Brindal), Chad Phelps, and Coach Regina Coleman won silver medals. The relay team of Sissy Flanigan, Molly Owens, Ryan Miller and Alex Hill took the bronze.