The annual Southern Maryland Special Olympics Spring Games took place at Leonardtown High School in Leonardtown, Maryland, April 22.

Over 260 Special Olympics-eligible athletes competed in track and field events to compete for a place at the state games later this year.

The Maryland Special Olympics Spring Games consist of 15 traditional Olympic-style sports which athletes from neighboring counties compete in. Qualifying athletes move on to regional, state, national, and global Special Olympics competition.

The games are the premier event of the Special Olympics Maryland St. Mary's County, said Alan Raley, area director.

"[The Spring Games are] an opportunity for athletes to showcase their abilities and celebrate their similarities," said Raley. "This event attracts athletes, parents, families, community members, local businesses, military and civilian volunteers from [Naval Air Station Patuxent River], and high school peer escorts."

Special guest Capt. Scott Starkey, NAS Patuxent River commanding officer, and 220 volunteers represented Pax River and U.S. Coast Guard Station St. Inigoes.

"This is our first year volunteering [with Special Olympics] and it's been a blast," said Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class Cody Green, Air Traffic Control division volunteer. "We'll definitely be back next year."

Raley said the spirit of the games is embodied by every athlete and volunteer who strives to be better each day.

"To answer the question, 'When is Special Olympics?' It's every day!" said Raley.

He added that the Special Olympics of Maryland, St. Mary's County will continue to develop into an inclusive program where both athlete and partner thrive.

"Only by your actions can we provide these opportunities to our athletes," said Raley of the volunteers.

For more news from Naval Air Station Patuxent River, visit http://www.navy.mil/.