Hundreds of athletes compete in Special Olympics New York Spring Games at Plainedge High School

About 500 athletes of all abilities went for the gold over the weekend in Nassau.

Plainedge High School hosted the Special Olympics New York’s Spring Games on Saturday.

Athletes competed in Olympic-style competitions in track & field, power lifting, swimming and tennis.

"People really care about people with intellectual differences and they see them. This is competitive, authentic sports, so having people here cheering them on, they deserve it, and it means the world to them,” said Stacey Hengsterman, president and CEO of Special Olympics New York.

There were games and prizes for people of all ages in attendance. The event was presented by several companies, including Optimum, part of News 12's parent company.