Spencer Heredia-Hicks’ first trip to the State Summer Games on May 31 in Columbia was a successful one.

The Montgomery County earned two bronze medals in swimming competition, adding to his already growing collection of medals he earned within the past two years. He participated in the 50-meter, 100-meter and 200-meter freestyle races at the State Summer Games, which were part of the Missouri Special Olympics.

“It’s fun to be a part of it,” said Heredia-Hicks, who will turn 27 on June 16. “You just release yourself and have some fun. It’s not just about winning. It’s about having fun.”

Heredia-Hicks began swimming when he was living in Mexico years ago and it has been one of his favorite sports since. Since there is no pool in Montgomery County, Heredia-Hicks practices in Warrenton.

“I had some trainers there and they helped me out,” Heredia-Hicks said. “I thought I should keep going. I’ve been in training. After that, I just had to keep doing it.”

Heredia-Hicks represented the Developmental Disabilities Assistance Board of Montgomery County at the State Summer Games, which consists of four sports – swimming, athletics, powerlifting and volleyball.

“They said they were excited for me and they were happy,” Heredia-Hicks said.

When he’s not swimming, Heredia-Hicks works at Grow2Gather in New Florence and the Montgomery County Senior Center. He said Grow2Gather is a good place to hang out with friends.

“I’ve met a ton of them since I’ve been in school,” Heredia-Hicks said. “It’s a great community. We get to help out. We even serve coffee and breakfast items there, too.”

At the Senior Center, Heredia-Hicks has many duties, including helping out with the annual Paddle Auction.

“Someone reminded me that I do have a family that I had to be with and that’s the Senior Center,” Heredia-Hicks said. “That’s where I met (Senior Center director) Jill (Burch). She’s doing a wonderful job.”