Athletes from all over Eastern Idaho gathered in Pocatello today, to compete in this year's Special Olympics. First place ribbons, and of course this year's bragging rights were on the line. KIDK Newswatch 3's Sarah Schwabe was there, and has the story.

15 teams proudly marched onto Davis Field this morning. Athletes from Salmon to Twin Falls were on hand to kick off this year's Special Olympics.

"We have about 320 participants here today competing in athletics, aquatics, basketball, cycling, golf, softball, power lifting," says area director, Delyn Porter.

Miss Idaho led the opening ceremonies. After lighting the torch, it was game time.

"They're probably the fiercest competitors when they're on the court or on the field, but as soon as they walk off there they're the best of friends again," says Porter.

Bryce Remington knows a thing or two about competing.

"I've been doing this close to 10 years," says Remington.

And today he's leading his team in track and field.

"The 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash and 4 by 100 relay," says Remington.

And like any athlete, Bryce didn't come here today unprepared. He and his teammates have been hard at work for weeks.

"We've been practicing now for about a month," says coach David Hoffmann, "the games are the funnest thing to do, it's fun to watch them come and compete and be successful, they all love it."

"Events like this allow them the opportunity to be a part of society, and they walk away being more accepted and with a feeling of accomplishment," says Miss Idaho Amanda Rammell.

And of course the Special Olympics couldn't be pulled off without serious volunteer power. This year, students from BYU-Idaho donated their time to set-up, keep scores, and just cheer everyone on.