The 4th annual Boothbay Cornhole Classic (BCC) raised $70,000 for Special Olympics Maine (SOM) and Unified Championship Club (UCC) through Bath YMCA on Sunday, Sept. 8. “This is the biggest turnout since the event started,” said Sawyer Boulette, incoming president of the BCC event committee. Around 80 registered teams competed in a four-set round robin competition, with 45 teams advancing to the double-elimination finals. Team Swish and Swoosh took the first place cash prize of $1,000; followed by team Rising 2 in second for $600, and Boothbay Fire Department in third for $400.

Before the tournament began, tribute was paid to the memories of Bruce Taylor, Drew Baker and Kenneth Williamson and their lasting impact on the cornhole, SOM and UCC. A moment of silence was followed by words from friends and family members; Mitchell Wallace for Williamson, Joel Small for Baker, and Boulette for Taylor. A dedicated first toss followed: Timothy and Cynthia Williamson for Kenneth Williamson, Tray Baker for Drew Baker, and Stacey Taylor and Kathy Lunt for Bruce Taylor.

New this year was the presentation of the Bruce Taylor Award in recognition of people who believe in giving back to the community, striving for success and having fun. The award went to Brenda Blackman and Tony Krason for their 34 years of meaningful and impactful work on behalf of SOM. In her acceptance speech, Blackman announced that Boulette and Rob Wheeler would be replacing her and Krason as president and vice president of the committee. “Thank you to all the sponsors and volunteers over the years,” said Blackman. Krason spoke of managing the event through the COVID years and rebounding while transitioning from a golf tournament to a cornhole tournament.

Sponsors and donors contributed items for a silent and a live auction, and raffle prizes. Items included gourmet food baskets, bottles of wine, a Dolly Parton-themed gift basket, gift cards, cash and more. Experiences included tickets to Patriots games, a Sugarloaf ski trip, and lots of Celtics tickets including a signed jersey from Derrick White. Michael Clement was auctioneer. An “air mail” challenge gave four people the chance to win $1,000 ($250 per sunk bag). Three of the four contestants missed each try, but Jacoby Cox of Hermon landed one shot, taking home $250 in cash.

Michael Marcelynas of Wicked Cornhole Events emceed the sports action. Breakfast sandwiches turned to hot dogs and hamburgers as the day-long event progressed. Drinks were provided by Mine Oyster.

Caroline Cole, senior director of strategy, and Mike Feldman, chair of SOM’s executive committee, said a few words. “We’re excited to be here and play some cornhole today. I want to say thanks to the community, teams, and volunteers who have helped the event come together. SOM hosts over 90 events annually, made possible by the dedication of our supporters,” said Cole.

For over 50 years, SOM has used sports as a foundation for creating opportunities and hope for people with intellectual disabilities ages 2-100. SOM works to create a world of inclusion, where every person is accepted and welcomed regardless of ability or disability.