History made at opening ceremonies

History was made on May 21 during the opening ceremonies of 2015 Special Olympics Iowa summer games when wheelchair athlete, Danny McDonald, was named the 2015 Special Olympic Iowa Athlete of the Year and becoming the first wheelchair athlete to win the award.

McDonald has been a participant in Special Olympics for more than 30 years. He is in a wheelchair and does not have the ability to speak. McDonald was awarded the athlete of the year for showing the spirit of a true winner by his willingness to help others while giving his best effort and showing true sportsmanship.

“Danny was always the first to shake your hand before and after every competition,” said reader Pam Wagner during the…