Darren Smith,18, puts his arm around Marcus Pierce,12, as they watch the races during the Special Olympics Friday at Natchez High School. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

From left, Jefferson County Elementary students, Kayshun Vargil, Larry Issac, and Marquis Buie, make their way toward the finish line as their classmates cheer them on Friday during the Special Olympics at Natchez High School. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Grace Re' jours leads students Quan Saul, Aiden Davis and Eric Boxley in a stretch Friday during the Special Olympics at Natchez High School. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Terrance Mealey of Wilkinson County High School races to the finish line as the crowd watches and cheers him on Friday during the Special Olympics at Natchez High School. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Natchez High School students, Alexis Callo, laughs with Brenda Miskell after competing in the Special Olympics Friday at Natchez High School. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)

Brenda Miskall crosses the finish line, Friday during the Special Olympics at Natchez High School. (Nicole Hester / The Natchez Democrat)