Gavin Haines was born without a left leg... but to see him skate.. you'd never know it.

"Getting to hang out with friends I've known from other years" Haines says is one of his favorite parts of skating, that along with, "Getting to do competitions against each other".

Haines is one of the many success stories from the Area 13 Special Olympic Roller Skating program... and while he might skate for the thrill of competing against others... it's working with others where this youngster has grown the most.

"Its really boosted his self esteem and self confidence" says his mother Amy, "He enjoys being around with all the other athletes."

This growing program has almost as many benefits as it has participants... exercise...and improved motor skills... are two big ones. But for these athletes... friendships are the best part of a night on wheels.

"I have a lot of friends here and they are really a lot of fun to skate with" says Angela Beltran, "I know that we can all win together, and do our best, and have fun."

On skates, there's no moment more important than when an athlete lets go of the wall... to some it may seem like a small accomplishment... but this victory inside the rink does a lot for these athletes confidence in the outside world.

"We've had students who weren't very verbal, come in the next day and talk about their accomplishments" says Area 13 Volunteer and Handley Special Education teacher Tina Hall, "It really does help bring them along as people."