>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

Former New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe poses with members of the Union County Special Olympics team at the Winter Games last week in Bend. - Submitted photo

Mandi Durfee of the Union County team led the way with three gold medals in alpine skiing.

Union County coach Doug Trice said he was pleased with the performance of all of his athletes. A special highlight for the team was a chance to meet former NFL quarterback Drew Bledsoe, who posed for a picture with the team.

Bledsoe was the featured speaker at the event.

2008 Special Olympics Winter Games At. Mt. Bachelor

Alpine

Mandi Durfee — gold SGS, gold SG, gold slalom

Clifford Young — bronze SGS and slalom, fifth GS

Ian Altenburg — silver SGS, bronze GS, fifth slalom,

Atheena McClaughry — bronze GS and slalom.

Snowboard

Stephanie Johnson — silver  GS and slalom, bronze SGS.

Cross Country

Jimmie Cross — silver 500m, gold 100m

Emily Moe — gold 50m, silver 100m

Remy Spangler — gold 1K race, fourth 500m

Braden Trice — bronze 1K, silver 500m