The Newton County Special Olympics Equestrian Team, coached by Kathy Johnson, brought home numerous awards from the recent Special Olympics Georgia State Horse Show at the Chicopee Woods Agriculture Center in Gainesville, Georgia.

Making it all the more special was the fact that the team had dedicated their performance to a very good friend, former Eastside High School classmate, Logan Davis, who passed away earlier this year.

According to Mickie Bradley, who serves with Lucy Roper as team co-coordinator, Logan’s love of horses was well-known.

“The entire team wore shirts with ‘In Memory of Logan Davis,’ on the sleeve,” said Bradley. “And the students honored her that day by bringing home 18 gold, 11 silver, and eight bronze medals, as well as two fourth-place ribbons.”

Bradley added that the medals and ribbons weren’t the only rewards that day.

“The students truly enjoyed sharing their skills and friendship with the other Special Olympics athletes,” she explained. “It’s a great experience for all of the students who participate in the program and we thank all of the sponsors who support our team:  G.L. Plumbing, Evans Tool & Die, VALSPAR, Newton County Saddle Club, Simply Dun Farm, Covington Elks Lodge 1806, F.E. Grinding & Grading, The Stock Market, Newton-Rockdale Optimist Club, and Got Me in Stitches!”