On September 11, 2015, the Haggin Oaks Golf Complex hosted the Special Olympics Golf Regionals. Starting at 7:30 am, over 200 Special Olympic athletes, along with over 50 volunteers, arrived with smiles on their faces in anticipation of a fun filled golf experience ahead.

Before the event started, everyone gathered for the Opening Ceremonies which included the Pledge of Allegiance, Special Olympic pledge and the torch from this year’s Special Olympic summer games. Next, Tom Morton, President of Morton Golf Foundation, announced that the games were officially open.

The event included 5 different golf skills stations set up on the Haggin Oaks Academy Holes at the back of the driving range. Athletes had an opportunity to show their talent. At one point during the day, Jane Siebers, Administrator for the Morton Golf Foundation, heard one of the athletes bragging about the 3 hole-in-one’s she had made.

There were also approximately 100 athletes that tested their golf skills for 9-holes on the Arcade Creek Golf Course in the 90 degree heat.

Everyone was a WINNER during the Special Olympics Golf Regionals. At the conclusion of the activities, everyone met back at the Creekside Landing Tent for a tasty hamburger BBQ and award ceremonies.

The athletes and volunteers went home energized and waiting for next year’s competition.