Special Olympics Torch Run Underway for 2023

(LIGHTNING SPECIAL OLYMPICS TEAM MEMBER JESSICA LUDWIG IS CARRYING THE TORCH TO HELP START THE TORCH RUN TO THE STATE GAMES)

The Illinois Special Olympics State Games are scheduled this weekend. Special Olympians from our area helped begin the Torch Run to the State Games Wednesday morning in downtown Effingham.

The Lightning Special Olympics team was on hand on the lawn of the Courthouse Museum for the 8am kickoff, accompanied by a sizable contingent from the law enforcement community. Law enforcement officers for many years have taken over from the Special Olympians for the bulk of the run to Mattoon, where another group continues the run. The finish line is at Illinois State University in Bloomington/Normal where the State Games will take place. 

Lightning team member Rachel Zakutansky will be one of four Special Olympians to take the torch to the cauldron that is lighted to signify the start of the State Games.

Ten athletes will be competing in various events at Illinois State University in Bloomington Friday and Saturday from the Effingham County Lightning.

Competing Friday will be:

Caleb Scott, Rachel Zakutansky, Beth Braundmeier and Tyler Ludwig in the 4x100 relay

Adam Gharst in the 400m, Tyler Ludwig in the 400m and Sarrah Prewitt in the 100m walk.

Competing Saturday will be:

Caleb Scott in the 200m, Nicholas Stewart in the 100m and running long jump, Christian Walsh in the softball throw, Macey Williamson in the mini javelin, Rachel Zakutansky in the 100m and mini javelin, Beth Braundmeier in the 200m, Kraig Dahnke in the running long jump and shot put, Adam Gharst in the 800m, Tyler Ludwig in the running long jump and Sarrah Prewitt in the softball throw.

Rachel Zakutansky has a special honor. She will be carrying the torch in the opening ceremonies Friday night at 8 p.m. at Hancock Stadium. She will be the first of four to light the cauldron.

The Opening Ceremony includes the Parade of Athletes, National Anthem, Athlete Oath, a quiet fireworks display and lighting of the Flame of Hope. 

The Summer Games include more than 3,000 athletes, 1,000 coaches and approximately 43 Unified partners.

Illinois State University has been the primary host venue with additional venues Kingsley Junior HIgh School and Normal Community High School.

Friday action will begin at noon and Saturday's competition will begin at 8 a.m.