Fifty-two athletes and coaches from the Douglas County Gators attended the Special Olympics Kansas State Basketball and Cheerleading Competition March 16-18 in Hays.

The cheerleading team won a gold medal. Members of the team were Ken Beard, Sandy Hanna, Chandler Higgins, Ashley Kilgore, Kara Laing, Larissa Laird, Jennifer McCue, Alissa Murray, Jessie Warkins and Felisha Williams. Robyn Garrison coached the cheerleaders.

Also, out of 1,200 athletes who attended, Jennifer McCue was named Most Inspirational Athlete. The award is given to someone who demonstrates strong team spirit and competitiveness.