Bonners Ferry Special Olympics athletes shine at state games

Three athletes from the Bonners Ferry Special Olympics team brought home multiple gold and silver medals after strong performances at the State Games in Nampa, held June 6 and 7. 

Seven athletes from the team qualified for the state competition at the northern regional event in Moscow last month. Of those, three were able to make the trip south to represent Bonners Ferry. 

Ladonna Gaston brought home two gold medals in cycling, winning both the 250-meter and 500-meter sprints. This marks the second consecutive year she has claimed gold in these events. 

Dylan Black earned a silver medal in the softball throw and captured gold in two walking events — the 200-meter and 400-meter races. 

Gavin Lee also took silver in the softball throw and finished fourth in both the 50-meter and 100-meter dash. 

The Bonners Ferry Special Olympics team takes part in fundraising events like the Polar Plunge and the Toyota Tundra raffle, which was featured during the annual torch run. Proceeds from these events help support both the state organization and the local team. 

Raffle tickets for the Toyota Tundra are $25, and from each ticket sold, $17 goes directly back to the Bonners Ferry team. These funds help cover expenses for events like the State Games, including transportation and lodging. 

The team will have a booth at the Boundary County Fair where raffle tickets will be available. Anyone interested in purchasing a ticket can also reach out to coach John Beck at 986-205-244. 

“We are always looking for new members to join our team,” said Beck. The Bonners Ferry team currently has 17 athletes, and volunteers are always welcome as well. 

    Ladonna Gaston with her two gold medals at the Special Olympics state summer games.
  

    Gavin Lee with his silver medal at the Special Olympics state summer games.