Danville Diamondbacks Are Big Winners
The Danville Diamondbacks are a spirited team of 30 Special Olympics athletes from the St. George, Utah area.
The team formed ten years ago, with the help of Danville’s Kenny Nyberg.
Team members train hard year-round and compete in a seasonal rotation of sports, from running, walking, and wheelchair races to field events like softball throw, tennis ball throw and turbo jav in the summer. Then it’s on to golf, bowling, downhill skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding and ice-skating, cycling and horseback riding.
Athletes travel to games and tournaments throughout the year, including about five trips per year to State tournaments in northern Utah.
“The athletes love these trips and look forward to the competition,” says Nyberg.
Last summer, the Diamondbacks received special recognition when golfers at the State tournament won several Gold medals, and Brad Barnes played with his brother, Jared; (who is a professional golfer) in an event called the short game challenge.
Seeing Brad and Jared play golf together was a dream come true for Brad and Jared’s Mother. Brad, 43, had politely refused to play golf with his brother until now. This year they golfed in the short game challenge, did very well and were even showcased on the KTVX evening news.
Adam Christensen and Ryan Hansen hold the team sign as the Diamondbacks line up for the parade of athletes during opening ceremonies for the Summer Games.
Left: Tyler Bundy, Keenan Nyberg, Adam Christensen, LaRon Cox and Brad Barnes at the Rose Park State Golf Championships in Salt Lake City. Right: Kenny Nyberg helps William Cantoni win Gold!
Our equestrian star Ryan Hansen getting ready for the parade and competition in St. George, Utah.
Kathryn Christensen shows off her Gold medal in a bowling tournament held in Salt Lake City Utah. Way to go State Champion!
Left: Jenny Jensen having a blast during the State bowling tournament in Salt Lake City Utah. Right: LaRon Cox just joined the Diamondbacks six months ago and is already showing off his Gold medals. Way to go LaRon!
Tyler Bundy showing much courage at the Park City Utah Cycling races, summer 2011. Even with two wrecks he got back on his bike and ended the day with 1 bronze, 1 silver and 1 gold medal. Tyler you are an inspiration!
Top: William Cantoni showing his skills in the sled race at Powder Mountain. Ogden Utah.
Middle: Jason Montgomery making his way for a win in the snowshoeing race.
Bottom: Evan Harmon ... Now passed from this life. He will always be a Champion to all that knew him.
Published on 12/04/2011 : Permalink
