Five special athletes are on their way to Nationals and the Taste Of Summer Charity BBQ is helping them get there.

Eastman Special Olympics Spokesperson Agnes Thiessen says the $1,562.50 made during Wednesday’s hot dog sales will go towards sending these athletes to the Special Olympics Winter Games in February of 2020.

She notes that it will cost $1,500 to send one athlete and, by extension, $7,500 to send all five.

Thiessen thanks everyone who donated and says even their physical presence meant a lot to the athletes.

“It’s such a great event. It’s so much fun. The athletes got to meet their fellow athletes, friends, some of the sponsors, and other community members so we are really really glad we could do this again.”

One look at the 25 beaming athletes talking, hugging, and showing off their medals to the other BBQ guests verifies Thiessen’s statement. The event was another success.

Many special athletes proudly displayed their medals during the Taste of Summer Charity BBQ.