COUNTYWIDE : Special Athletes Give It Their Best

His friends call him Speedy, and on Saturday, he got a chance to show off his stuff.

Darrin McKimson, 17, was one of the many developmentally disabled youths who competed in the Ventura County Special Olympics track and field competition at Ventura High School.

He placed first in his class in the 100- and 200-meter dashes and pulled his team to victory in the 400-meter relay.

Afterward, Darrin said he hopes to go on to the state Special Olympics in June.

“I like to win,” he said. “It makes me feel great.”

About 420 developmentally disabled youths and adults, ages 3 to 60, participated in the games, which also included the 25-meter dash, softball throw, running long jump, 30-meter slalom manual wheelchair, shot put and 800-meter run.

More than 1,000 awards were given to the participants, said Carol Newsham, the area director for the Special Olympics.

“Everyone is a winner here,” she said. “Obviously the games are a lot of fun . . . but more importantly, all the training helps to improve the self-esteem of the participants.”

Mike Bierman, 14, who placed first in the 200-meter dash for the age group below Darrin’s, proudly showed off his blue ribbon. “This is great,” Mike said. “I’ve been practicing for this.”

“When these guys win, they’re all so happy for each other,” said Francine Mutulo, a volunteer who worked at the event. “And it’s amazing to see what they can do.”

Darrin’s father, Delbert McKimson, said he is proud of his son.

“He’s one of the best,” McKimson said. “He’s a very special kid.”