Logo courtesy of Special Olympics Northern California

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - Athletes from Yuba, Sutter and Colusa counties returned home with an impressive medal haul after competing in the 2026 Special Olympics Northern California Summer Games, earning multiple gold medals in bocce and track and field.

After months of training, local athletes competed against teams from across Northern California, showcasing their skills, determination and sportsmanship throughout the multi-day competition.

The Yuba/Sutter/Colusa delegation entered three bocce teams, and each captured a gold medal in its division.

The Rolling Rhinos team of James Hensley, Amanda Manes, Stephanie Johnson and Haley Cunningham was coached by Caryn Burke.

The Valkyries team of Karen Young, Haley Sinn, Elizabeth Crockett and Sai Vang was coached by Rylee Dysart.

The Smack Talkers team of John Melin, Peter Culverson, Theo Riedel and Cory Sangston was coached by Courtney Burke.

The area's track and field team also earned numerous medals under coaches Brayden Dysart, Jason Dysart and Mikeal Dysart.

Matt Amaro won a gold medal in the Turbo Javelin, a bronze medal in the 100-meter walk and placed sixth in the 400-meter walk.

Damyan Dysart earned gold in the Turbo Javelin, silver in the running long jump and bronze in the 100-meter run.

James "Bubba" Godwin won silver medals in the 400-meter walk and Turbo Javelin, along with a bronze medal in the shot put.

Alex Kaney earned silver in the shot put, bronze in the Turbo Javelin and finished fourth in the 100-meter run.

TJ Nash captured gold in the 100-meter walk, silver in the shot put and placed fourth in the 25-meter run.

Tegan Ruiz won gold in the 50-meter run and silver medals in the 100-meter run and long jump.

Kathleen Smith earned gold medals in the softball throw and 25-meter run, along with a silver medal in the 50-meter run.

Grayson Vang completed the games with three gold medals, winning the 25-meter run, running long jump and 50-meter run.

"Watching our athletes compete is one of the greatest privileges imaginable," Area Director Jonnie Hagan said. "Every athlete represented our community with courage, determination and incredible heart. While we are thrilled with the medals our athletes earned, we are even more proud of the sportsmanship they displayed, the friendships they built and the confidence they gained throughout the Games."

Hagan also thanked the area's coaches, families, caregivers, volunteers, donors and community partners for supporting the athletes throughout the season.

With the Summer Games complete, the Yuba/Sutter/Colusa program has shifted its focus to upcoming softball, golf and soccer seasons and is welcoming new athletes, coaches and volunteers.