Spirit Award recipient

For many, many years, Gert Lutz was an unheralded, behind-the-scenes supporter of the State Special Olympics Bowling Tournament.

Lutz spearheaded numerous fund-raising efforts and volunteered countless hours supervising the lanes. With Gert's passing in the spring of 2004, Special Olympics South Dakota has lost a true friend.

The third annual Spirit Award was presented on Nov. 11 in Aberdeen at the bowling tournament at Village Bowl.

Each coach nominated one athlete from their team who consistently demonstrates courtesy, sportsmanship and love for the sport of bowling.

The winner of the 2006 Gert Lutz memorial Spirit Award was Peter LaTaurette from SESDAC in Vermillion.

LaTourette would like to recognize his SPO Coordinator Coach Joshua Smith.