In North Richland Hill’s Special Olympics, Carmelo Palacios took the gold in bocce doubles on Aug. 2.

“I was really excited when they called my name,” Carmelo said.

Wise County’s first ever Special Olympics team, Made 2 Thrive, brought home seven gold and three silver medals. Bocce, an Italian sport, is similar to bowling.

“We were inside, so it wasn’t hot and everyone was having lots of fun,” Carmelo said.

The team consisted of 10 special needs athletes from Wise County that started practicing in early spring. Coach Carli

Franks lead her team to a local practice competition in July so they could get the experience of the real event.

“My partner was Kristen. I wear my medal everywhere so everyone can see it,” Carmelo said.

This was Carmelo’s first time to compete at a regional level, and he plans to stay with the team.

“I can’t wait to play again,” Carmelo said.