Special Olympics strikes Montgomery

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - Athletes from across the state have gathered at various locations in Troy and the Capital City for the Special Olympics Alabama.

At Brunswick Zone on Saturday, hundreds of athletes with intellectual disabilities convened for an afternoon of some friendly competition.

One of the bowlers was Charlie Brunson. Charlie is 38 years old and has William's Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes children to have heart issues. His father David, is his biggest supporter.

"Bowling is something he's done with his grandfather for years and just really enjoys it and that's what he chooses every year... to be on the bowling team," said David Brunson.

But Charlie isn't letting his disorder stop him.

"It gives me something to do," Charlie Brunson said.

Not only does it give him something to do, it gives him something to be a part of.

"They practice for months and everything getting ready for the Olympics, and it just gives that camaraderie of everybody getting out there and working together, and practicing and getting ready to go," said David Brunson.

Charlie doesn't care about winning, even though it's something he does quite often.

"He's won the first game and he's winning the second. Everything's going good right now," David Brunson said.

Charlie is just focused on getting better at the sport and having fun. After all, that is the goal of Special Olympics Alabama.

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