8 · SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2019 TRIB TOTAL MEDIA
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
KAREN PRICE | FOR TRIB TOTAL MEDIA
Milton Claney, 77, of Greensburg, who founded the Westmoreland County Special Olympics chapter, speaks to participants, families, guests and volunteers on May 4 during the
track-and-field day at Norwin High School.
Michael Anthony climbed to the top
spot on the podium to receive his 217th
Special Olympics medal.
The 58-year-old from Greensburg won
his first medal back in 1975. This year, on
the first Saturday in May at Westmoreland
County’s track-and-field day at Norwin
High School, it was a gold in the 100-meter
dash. From the fist pumps to the cheers
to the huge smile that spread across his
face, it was clear that the thrill hasn’t lessened
over time.
“It’s great, it’s exciting, it’s beautiful and
it’s wonderful. I love it,” said Anthony,
drawing out the word “love” when speaking
about the Special Olympics.
Similar podium celebrations took place
all day long, as more than 160 athletes of
all ages competed at the annual gathering
in events including running races, standing
long jump, softball toss and discus.
The Westmoreland County chapter of
the Special Olympics also celebrates its
50th anniversary this year. What started as
a small track-and-field event now serves
hundreds of athletes each year with many,
such as Anthony, competing in both summer
and winter sports and often traveling
to the state games at Penn State in the
STILL ‘SPECIAL’
AFTER ALL THESE YEARS
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Westmoreland County Special Olympics
still gives competitors, volunteers fulfilling experience, lasting memories
BY KAREN PRICE
FOR TRIB TOTAL MEDIA