Hundreds of people competed yesterday in the Special Olympics Hawai'i State Summer Games at the University of Hawai'i-Manoa campus.

The games, which end today, invited 1,100 athletes from across the state for contests in powerlifting, swimming, track and field, softball and other activities.

Jacob Pua'a Spencer, 22, of the Moloka'i Koa Mana team, cheered on his teammates during the powerlifting competition.

Charlyn Chee, 25, a dugout coach with the Red Wave softball team from Hilo, was there with her brother Timothy, 21, and her twin sister Chandra, who both took part in track and field, and softball. "It's a thrill just to be here and watch them, to watch them pass the finish line," Charlyn said. "They worked hard to get where they are, practiced so hard."

Chandra said: "I love it. This is my third year. Before I did Special Olympics, I used to struggle a lot. It's helped me stay motivated. It gives me self-confidence."

The Red Wave team held car washes and bake sales to raise money to compete.

"I cook at home for the bake sales," Chandra said. "Brownies and Chinese pretzels are my favorites."