The Adirondack Redneck team poses with the Special Olympics New York banner during the State Summer Games in Ithaca. Pictured from left in the back are Steve Schlosser, Allen Hurteau and Ricky Sullivan. In the front are Michael Nephew, Keith Freeman, Erik Viscardo, Tyler Hochwald and Don Moore. (Provided photo) (Provided photo)

The Adirondack Rednecks Special Olympic Team traveled to Ithaca to compete in bowling at the State Summer Games.

The unified bowling team of Ricky Sullivan, Allen Hurteau, Keith Freeman and Steve Schlosser received a gold medal in their division. The rest of the team played singles and doubles and received silver and bronze in their respective division.

More than 1,200 athletes, unified partners and coaches attended the event on June 14 and 15 at Ithaca College. Other competitions during the weekend included athletics, basketball, bowling, gymnastics, powerlifting, swimming, tennis and volleyball.

Special Olympics New York’s signature kick-off event on June 14 included the parade of athletes, remarks by President and CEO Stacey Hengsterman, local officials and athlete representatives as well as the traditional Law Enforcement Torch Run and lighting of the cauldron.

Adirondack Rednecks team member Erik Viscardo was one of the athlete representatives during the Opening Ceremony as he introduced Hengsterman. Viscardo was 2023 Athlete of the Year for New York state.

The team is now transitioning to bocce training weekly and will attend the Fall Games in October in Glens Falls.