Eleven-year-old Olivia Garcia, a 4th-grade student at Laura Bush Elementary, bowled her way to gold for the second consecutive year at the Special Olympics Central Texas Bowling Competition during the week of November 10th.

Olivia, who has cerebral palsy, uses a wheelchair and is deaf, competed in the ramp-assisted bowling division representing the Leander Lazers under the Leander Independent School District. After two and a half months of steady practice, her dedication paid off in a thrilling finish.

The competition included athletes from across Central Texas, including Lake Travis, Hutto, and Dripping Springs. After two games, the combined score determined the winner—and Olivia triumphed by just two pins, securing her second gold medal in back to back years.

“We are so proud of Olivia and all her hard work,” shared her parents, Ricardo and Meghan Garcia. “Her determination and positive spirit inspire everyone around her. We are also incredibly grateful to the Special Olympics Central Texas volunteers for their support and commitment to making these events possible.”

Olivia’s win is a testament to perseverance, community support, and the joy of inclusion that the Special Olympics embodies.

Submitted by Ricardo Garcia