The Haywood County Special Olympics participated in the 2012 North Carolina state Bocce tournament which was held Saturday, Oct. 13, in Swannanoa.

More than 425 Western NC Special Olympics athletes attended and competed.  Haywood County was well-represented, and two of its athletes won gold medals.  Jason Trantham and Morgan Bielick played well.

During their bocce games, both athletes strategically implemented their rolls to maximize their points, which resulted in victories in both of their matches.  Each athlete was focused and competed to the best of their abilities, and gold medals followed.

“Both Jason and Morgan were very proud of their accomplishments, but it was also wonderful to see how each demonstrated good sportsmanship towards their fellow competitors,” said Brad Brothers, of ...