Rio Rancho Rockets rack up medals at Special Olympics; torch passes through Bernalillo

ALBUQUERQUE — The Special Olympics New Mexico Summer Games came to the University of New Mexico Track and Field and Soccer Complex May 30 to June 1.

Among the many teams competing included the hometown Rio Rancho Rockets, who had countless athletes attempting to find a spot on the podium.

“I ran very good,” said Rio Rancho Rockets athlete Nathan Archibeque, who mentioned that he plans on running next year, too.

Events throughout the weekend included flag football, volleyball, high jump, shot put, turbo javelin, softball throws and various walks, runs, and sprints on the track.

The Rockets found success during the relays and were repeatedly walking away with gold.

Rio Rancho’s Kale Sullivan was among the standouts and showed some wheels during the 4x100 meter relay race, helping his team come in first place.

“This is a lot of fun, and I am happy that my teammates supported me. I have also won a silver medal for hockey,” Sullivan said.

Also running a crucial relay leg was Rio Rancho’s Megan Williams, who had a big smile on her face after winning a medal.

“We came in first,” an excited Williams said, who also gave her coaches a ton of credit saying, “I am thankful for Hailey, Zach and Lisa.”

Another Rocket relay team finding glory on the track consisted of Savannah Gossett, Dominic Gossett, Daniel Gossett and Elijah Fields.

During the race, the Gossetts had smooth transitions, and Fields showed some impressive strides and acceleration on his stretch.

While the track action was going down at UNM, Bernalillo Police Department began the Law Enforcement Torch Run at Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Bernalillo .

“I have the honor of representing our agency in support of Special Olympics New Mexico through the Law Enforcement Torch Run,” Bernalillo Police Officer Michael Martinez said. “This incredible event unites law enforcement and community members across the state to advocate for and celebrate the achievements of Special Olympics athletes.”

Bernalillo Mayor Jack Torres was also in attendance among many BPD officers.

“Our segment of the run will pass through the town of Bernalillo and include participants from neighboring agencies, including the National Guard, Team Red, White and Blue, and others,” Martinez said.

The Torch Run features an Olympic-style torch, which is carried by first responders throughout New Mexico until its final destination at the UNM track. The Rio Rancho Police Department also participated along NM 528 from the Sandoval County Courthouse to Latitudes, according to the department’s Facebook page.

After several track and field events on May 30, as the day began to die, the crowd stood on their feet the moment the torch began to make its way to the track. Then, applause, and cheer erupted as the torch had arrived signaling another special weekend of Olympic action.