CORPUS CHRISTI – The Beeville Special Olympics team competed at the Area 2 track and field meet over the weekend.

“We head beautiful weather, a perfect day for track and field and the athletes had a great time,” said Beeville coach David Henley.

All teams were given a military escort for the opening ceremonies. The Trojan team was honored to have Marine MSgt. Edward Castaneda, a native of Chicago and an Iraq War veteran who is currently stationed in Corpus Christi.

A special honor was also bestowed on the Beeville team as Aileen Garcia was selected to be one of the five athletes to make the final run with the Olympic torch around the track during the opening ceremonies. Her co-runner was Officer Marlene Mandell, representing the Texas Department of Justice Glossbrenner Unit and the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

Allie Bernal won a silver medal in the 50-meter run and a gold medal in the softball throw for the Trojans. Aileen Garcia was fifth in the 50-meter race and won a silver medal in the softball throw. Richard Moreno won a gold medal in the 50-meter walk and another gold in the softball throw. Alex Salazar was fifth in the 50-meter run and captured a fourth place finish in the softball throw.

“Great job Trojans, we’re proud of you,” said Henley.