Special Athletes Gather for Opening of Winter Games

Some eager athletes gathered in Dubuque Monday night for the opening ceremonies of the annual Iowa Special Olympics winter games.

The cold weather forced the ceremony indoors, but that didn't dull the excitement for the athletes preparing to compete.

Tuesday and Wednesday, hundreds of athletes from across the state will participate in skiing, snow shoeing and speed skating.

Joe Soy and Jeff Salisberry of Waterloo are excited about a little friendly competition.

In fact, these two were just excited about sports in general.

"We do the sports. We do track and field. And the hockey. I love the Blackhawks," they said.

After Monday night's opening ceremony, the athletes take part in a dance hosted by the Upper Main Street Jazz Band. Many say that's their favorite part of winter games.