Seven Worland athletes ready to compete in Summer Sports Classic

TEN SLEEP -The August sun beats down in the early afternoon during equestrian practice on a ranch just outside Ten Sleep. The ranch belongs to Carolyn Marcus' parents. Marcus is the coach of the seven member Washakie County Special Olympics team.

The team is set to compete in Casper on Friday and Saturday at the first annual Summer Sports Classic sponsored by Special Olympics Wyoming.

The team has been practicing once a week at the ranch since the end of June, and Tuesday was one of their final practices in preparation for the competition on Friday and Saturday. All seven of the competitors will be taking part in the equestrian portion of the event.

"I'm excited to go to Casper and compete," said Quinn Bryant, one of seven members of the team. Quinn was joined at practice on Tuesday by fellow teammates Emily Carr, Michelle Christensen, Ashlee Light, and Roberta Gustafson. Also competing this weekend are Troy Edwards and Albert Bucio.

The Summer Sports Classic is comprised of the equestrian competition and a softball competition. The Equestrian events are taking place at Reach 4 a Star Riding Academy starting on Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and then again Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

"This is my second year as head coach," said Marcus. "I've helped all four years we've had the program. We've got a couple new riders this year to the program. Drill team is a new event we just added and we're excited to see how we do in it this year. They need 20 hours of practice in order to go to state. Each person can do three events."

The equestrian event consists of several competitions including equitation, halter, trail class, figure eight, barrels, pole bending and drill team. Marcus said each competitor will compete in three events of their choosing.

"We had eight competitors this year but one of the kids dropped out and he will be back again next year," explained Marcus. "Everyone has made a lot of progress this year. We have a couple that are getting close to being independent riders instead of assisted, which is our goal - to progress them through the program and help them to go up a level. Our goal next year is to have four independent riders."

Seven is down from last year when Washakie County had nine competitors.

"It's pretty much supported by people who donate equipment and time. We have five riders who have been with the program all four years," said Marcus. "Special Olympics do fundraisers which helps pay for the motels and to help get the team down there. Without the volunteers none of this would be possible."

Donations for the team are accepted in any form, and additional information can be obtained by calling Carolyn Marcus at 347-3535.