More than 250 athletes from across Victoria converged on our city for the Special Olympics Victorian State Games.

And while some departed last night or this morning clutching a medallion, winning wasn't everything for the athletes involved.

The Special Olympics offers so many more opportunities  to those taking part than just a chance to win.

The games are first and foremost a chance for athletes to form new and lasting friendships. It also gives athletes a chance to travel to areas like ours that they might not otherwise have the chance to see.

Melbourne visitor Katrina Hughes, who competed in five athletics events in Bendigo, best summed up the mood among those participating when she said: "It's like a big family. We all have heaps of fun."

In a sporting world that all too often puts too heavy a price on winning, it was satisfying just to see people being happy to have the chance to participate or be part of a team.

We look forward to these special athletes return and hopefully more when Bendigo hosts the Games again next year.

A job well done to all those involved in the organisation of this celebrated event, including Bendigo Police.