Thames wins Gold Medal at Special Olympics Ireland

  Story submitted by Deborah Jacobs, Head of Delegation South Carolina 2003 Summer World Games

Melissa Thames, who receives supports from Babcock Center and lives at the Batesburg residential facility, was selected to be part of TEAM USA in the sport of Equestrian for the Special Olympics South Carolina delegation.

During the year prior to the 2003 Summer World Games to be held in Dublin Ireland, Melissa trained with Dream Riders under the supervision of Lewis Dyer, owner, and Jennifer Stoudemire.

In June of 2003, many things began to happen at once. There were uniforms to try on and to get altered, equestrian boots to break in, riding pants to purchase, and passports to prepare before attending the send-off party with the SC delegation on June 14 in Columbia .

On June 15, the delegation left Columbia bound for Disney World in Orlando , Florida . That day, the entire delegation was part of the Disney World parade down Disney Lane , as they were welcomed by thousands of fans. Later that evening, they boarded a 747 for a 12 hour flight to Belfast Ireland , the host city for TEAM USA . The stay in Belfast lasted for five days.

Opening ceremonies were held on June 21 at Croke Park in Dublin , Ireland . The highlight of the entire event for Melissa was during competition, when she won the first gold medal for the SC delegation in English Equitation. We were all so proud of her because she had some very good competition. Melissa couldn’t believe she had won. When her name was called, she said, “Who? Me?”

On June 30, the team from South Carolina left Dublin headed for home. It was an experience I will never forget. Being with Melissa who has become a lifelong friend is beyond words. She is a team player, a gracious young lady, a cheerful friend and an awesome competitor!