Eagle Grove’s own Sara Krahling, the daughter of Bill Krahling and Cyndy Schmanke, was recently recognized for participating in 40 years of Special Olympics events at the district and state levels. The induction into the Iowa Special Olympics Hall of Fame took place in West Des Moines on December 12.
In her years in Special Olympics, Sara has competed in sports such as track and field, bowling, ice-skating, roller skating, softball and swimming. Recently, she also began participating in one of her favorite sports to watch and now play: basketball.
Jen Conaway, Sara’s sister and former coach, says that Sara “has always strived to do her best and has stayed positive through any event she was involved in.”
Sara was nominated for the Hall of Fame by one of her former coaches, Jared Carder. Carder became aware of her dedication and hard work while working as principal at Eagle Grove Elementary. In a recent interview, Sara said she jumped for joy when Carder called her and her sister to tell them the wonderful news.
The Hall of Fame Induction Party in West Des Moines was an evening filled with socializing and hors d’oeuvres. Sara received her crystal keepsake award along with a rose bouquet and a jacket with her name and the Special Olympics emblem on it. Her name is now included as a permanent display of ten honorees which will be housed at the Special Olympics Iowa State office in Grimes.
On December 15, Sara was also honored at the Eagle Grove Evangelical Lutheran Church with her display of ribbons, medals and many Special Olympics action shots of Sara through the years.
“Sara is the ideal athlete to coach,” Conaway commented. “She enjoys a challenge, she works hard to get better at her skills, she is always encouraging and cheering on her teammates and even competitors from other teams and she always gives her best effort until the finish line or the whistle blows. Her work effort and competitive spirit is an inspiration to everyone!”
The recent Hall of Fame inductee offered some kind words when asked about her sister Jen’s impact on her life.
“She’s a pretty good teacher,” Krahling admitted with a grin.
Sara says her favorite part about playing sports is getting to see her family and friends in attendance, and was quick to quote the Special Olympics credo: “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in my attempt.”
