Elizabeth Swarthout competes in the softball throw for Grant County at the Special Olympics State Summer Games in Corvallis.

This year’s Special Olympics State Summer Games was a sensation for the Grant County team.

The largest annual event for the organization drew 2,000 athletes, 600 coaches and 1,300 volunteers for the July 7-9 event in Corvallis.

Among the Grant County athletes competing in track and field events was Harvey Davis, who finished second in the 100-meter dash in his division.

“I enjoyed being with everybody and being supported by everyone,” he said. “My favorite thing about the Summer Games was winning the silver medal in the 100-meter dash.”

Jay Colson improved on his shot put throw and finished seventh against tough competition. He threw 7 meters, and hopes to increase it to 10 meters next season.

“You can go to compete and meet other people, and just do your personal best,” Colson said. “The best part is to just have fun and enjoy the event.”

The track and field competition took place at Corvallis High School, and the Games ceremonies were held July 8 at Oregon State University’s Reser Stadium.

Grant County coach Deronda Lallatin was pleased with her team, which includes Davis, Colson, Elizabeth Swarthout, Katie Latham, Rodney Brunson, Brian McKrola, Crystal Wimberley and Katie Shockley.

“Those who struggled at the regional competition did well at the state games,” she said. “Their hard work paid off.”

The team stayed at the OSU dorms instead of hotels this year.

“It was a lot of fun,” Lallatin said. “Everyone was excited about the new venue.”

The team also enjoyed a dance Saturday evening where they met members of the OSU football team.

Cheering on the eight local athletes were six volunteers, including team helper Sarah Lallatin, and volunteers David Gill, Karla Colson and Mike and Lori Shockley.

Next up for the Grant County team will be soccer in the fall, if they can find a coach. Lallatin welcomes anyone interested in coaching to contact her at 541-620-4295.

Summer Games

Elizabeth Swarthout, first, softball throw

Katie Latham, second,100-meter dash

Harvey Davis, second, 100-meter dash

Rodney Brunson, third, softball throw

Jay Colson, fourth, standing long jump; seventh, shot put

Jay Colson, Caleb Madsen, Brian McKrola and Crystal Wimberley, fourth, 4×100-meter relay