by Justin Brown, FF/EMT-P
7/13/2010

For the first time in many years, the Special Olympics return to the area.  The Town of Medway was host to the Bicycle Preliminaries at the Medway High School. 

Some may remember that the Town of Holliston hosted the finals for about ten years before that event was moved to the Cape.  The qualifiers from this event will move on to the finals in Belchertown.  About 75 participants from all around the state came to compete in relentless heat that hovered around 95 degrees. 

Both Holliston Fire Department and Medway Fire Department representatives were standing by to lend a hand.  One patient was transported to the hospital after being overcome from the heat.  Other than a bandage or two, there were no injuries. 

The 8 events of the day:
500 Meter - Time Trials

• 1K - Time Trials
• 1K - 3 Wheel Bike - Time Trials
• 1K - Unified (2 Participants on separate bikes, special Olympian must finish first)
• 5K - Road Race
• 10K - Time Trials
• 10K - Road Race
• 15K - Road Race

The participants' track was set up in the parking lots and the access roads around Medway High School.  Several events were led by Medway Police motorcycle "B-1."