BY DONNA SWICEGOOD

Tyler Bowie grinned broadly as he was presented the Tony Stikeleather Athlete of the Year Award on Wednesday at the Iredell County Special Olympics’ annual donors banquet.

The award is named in honor of a long-time Special Olympics coach, who passed away in 2019. Bowie was the fourth recipient, following in the footsteps of Chase Stroud, Reece Williams and Preston Fox.

Fox, last year’s winner, presented this year’s award to Bowie. Stikeleather’s daughter Hannah Elsenboss, accompanied by her sisters, Sarah Stikeleather and Kala Bryden, spoke about her father’s dedication to Special Olympics.

The award was presented to the athlete who best embodies the spirit of dedication and compassion that Stikeleather always displayed, Fox said.

Bowie, he said, was that athlete. “He supports his teammates. … He celebrates their victories,” he said, describing Bowie as a dedicated and hard-working multi-sport athlete. “He shows up ready to work, ready to learn and ready to bring out the best in everyone else.”

Bowie said winning the award was a great honor. “Thank you,” he said.

The theme of this year’s event was Showering You With Gratitude. In honor of that theme, each donor was given a Special Olympics umbrella.

Special Olympics athlete Sissy Blackwell talked about the importance of those who donated their time, money and support.

“We appreciate you all so much,” she said.

Blackwell, who competes in several sports, said she was hooked the first time she played basketball as a Special Olympian.

The banquet also featured Barrett Wiliams, a unified partner, Eric Feimster, a coach and volunteer, and Kent Moore, a parent and donor.

Bobbi Williams, coordinator for Special Olympics in Iredell County, thanked all of those who contributed to the organization. She said she hopes the donors feel appreciated not just on Wednesday but everyday.