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The Manta Rays Win in 2011!
Swim Fest 2011 dawned hot and gusty, but the water was clean and cool. Down Home Ranchers got right to swimming their teams' collective mile to fulfill their promise for this annual fundraiser. Over $22,000 was generously donated by friends and family to provide funds that help make vacations and enrichment opportunities possible for the Ranchers.
This is a third more than last year. Under the enthusiastic leadership of the indomitable Struby family, the Manta Rays, captained by Rancher Mark Struby, once again walked away with the trophy, but the race was closer, with the Dolphin's nipping at their fins in the home stretch. The Manta Rays also included Kristen, Mike, Michael, Karri, John, and Tom. Next year 28 Ranchers will board the Carnival Triumph for a 4-day cruise to Cozumel in late January or early February. Seasoned cruisers by now, they are already planning their favorite activities on board and off. And next summer the annual convention of the National Down Syndrome Conference will be held in Washington, D.C. We are tentatively planning to take all Ranchers—not just those with Down syndrome—as the chance to visit our nation's capital, learn about our history, meet our legislators, and advocate on behalf of adults with disabilities is an opportunity not to be missed. We are grateful to everyone who pitched in to make this year's Swim Fest a success. We still have a ways to meet our goal, but we have a great start. 
Meet the Manta Rays!
Team Captain: Mark Mark came to camp for years before he moved to the Ranch after getting out of high school in 2005. Mark's mom thought he should stay at home a few years, and Mark was understanding, but finally told his mom, "You'll be fine, Mom. I need my own life now." This independent spirit will served Mark well as he motivated Michael, Kristen, Mike, Kyle, John, and Tommy (not pictured) to take on all comers to capture the trophy for Swim Fest 2011.
The Dolphins Dare All!
Team Captain: Kelly Kelly has been swimming since she was eight months old, so she's a natural to head up the daring Dolphins—Matt, Valerie, Julia, Rebekah, Travis, and Nick (not pictured). Like their namesake, the Dolphins swim fast, love to have a good time, and have terrific smiles. They'll made a game plan and followed it carefully during Swim Fest.
Beware the Barracudas!
Team Captain: Andrew Andrew likes to let other teams know that barracudas are pretty fearsome fish. Andrew is the #1 Down Home Ranch fisherman, and loves nothing more than going deep-sea fishing with his pals and family. Andrew proved an able captain, guiding Barracudas Sterling, Ryan, Kara, Kyle, Brent Alan and Clyde (not pictured) to their goal during Swim Fest.
The Sharks Want Their Share!
Team Captain: Jim Captain Jim moved to the Ranch in November of last year and loves it here. Jim has the distinction of being the only Rancher to live all by himself in a two-bedroom cottage. This will be Jim's third cruise with the bunch to Cozumel, and he can hardly wait. Jim's a natural leader, and team members Alaina, Christopher, Natalie, Crystal, Terri, and Jason (not pictured) to followed his lead. He's a tough captain, but a fair one, the kind that inspires the crew to greater glory.
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