Special Olympics Connecticut recently honored Guilford residents Lizzie Reynolds and Amari Denzel Timmons at its annual Hall of Fame event on March 22. The event celebrates the organization’s extraordinary athletes, volunteers, and sponsors for their dedication, leadership, spirit, and support.

Reynolds was a co-recipient of the Spirit of Life Award. This award is presented to athletes who exemplify the true spirit and meaning of Special Olympics. Reynolds, a student at Guilford High School, has been a part of the Special Olympics Unified Sports program for six years. Although shy at first, Reynolds never let that stop her as perseverance and practice transformed her into a more confident athlete. Instead of being more interested in being a spectator, Reynolds now shows up early to every practice and participates in scrimmages and drills in sports that include gymnastics, track and field, soccer, basketball, and swimming. With her newfound confidence, Reynolds is now scoring goals and making multiple baskets in games, while feeling more comfortable interacting with her teammates and demonstrating her positive attitude and sense of humor wherever she goes.

Timmons also received the Spirit of Life Award. Timmons has participated in the Special Olympics Unified Sports program at Guilford Lakes School for two years. His passion and love for basketball is what drives him to fulfill his goals both on and off the court, and he shows a sense of kindness and sportsmanship that makes him a joy to be around. No matter the challenge, Timmons’s positive spirit helps him overcome any obstacle that comes his way.