Special Olympics athletes compete in Bradenton bowling qualifier

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Dozens of Special Olympics Florida athletes took to the lanes in Bradenton on Sunday, competing for a chance to advance to the state bowling championship.The Area 7 North bowling competition was held at Bowlero on Cortez Road West. Athletes competed after spending weeks training for the event.Those who qualify will move on to the Special Olympics Florida State Bowling Championship in Orlando, scheduled for September 18 and 19.Regional Director Jessica Ott said the competition gives athletes a chance to showcase the work they have put in.“Everybody is so excited, everywhere from our athletes to our coaches,” Ott said. “They’ve been training for eight to 10 weeks, so for them to really shine out here on the lanes is really incredible.”Ott also thanked the volunteers who helped make the competition possible.