SEATTLE -- Special Olympics athletes from our state are now one month away from the trip of a lifetime. They're training for the USA games in Seattle.
Team Wisconsin features more than a dozen athletes from the Milwaukee area. They're hopeful for a good showing at the games, but already grateful for the opportunity to compete.
"It's an honor, and I'm representing North Shore and the State of Wisconsin, and showing who I am as an athlete, as a person. I'm going to do my best," said Rachel Frank of Glendale.
Speed walker Michelle Buchanan of Brown Deer has been training since last year. "It feels like you're doing something for your team," Buchanan said. "You're doing something for Special Olympics. You gotta do it strong and helpful for the team."
She and the other athletes have been recording their workouts and nutrition for months, including daily water intake, fruits and vegetables, and miles walked.
Mark Wolfgram, from Special Olympics Wisconsin, will lead the delegation in Seatlle. He notes that many athletes are not only excited heading into the Games, but healthier.
"They've been working on nutrition. We have several athletes who have lost a significant amount of weight in preparation for this," Wolfgram explained.
The USA Games kick off in Seattle on July 1st. Team Wisconsin is still fundraising to pay for the trip. There's more information on that, the team roster, and all the events at the event here.
