There aren't many better feelings in sport than winning it all, especially when you win it playing against your rivals.

David Friesen and his teammates got to do just that at the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in Antigonish, Nova Scotia this summer.

Friesen plays for Manitoba's basketball team, which won gold at the tournament. They defeated a team from Langley, BC, in the final -- a team Friesen is familiar with.

"Four years ago it was them beating us in Vancouver. This time it was our turn," says Friesen. He says he was thrilled with the win, but beyond getting a gold medal he says it's good to have strong competition. "Everywhere I go I want good competition so my skills can get higher and higher and higher."

Manitoba athletes who took part in the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games and the Special Olympics National Bowling Championships were recognized by Mayor Brian Bowman at City Hall yesterday. Friesen spoke at the event on behalf of the athletes. He thanked their coaches for the time and effort they put in for training, as well as the athletes' families for their support. He thanked the mayor and city for hosting them as well.

"Being a part of Team Manitoba and representing the City of Winnipeg is an experience I will never forget," Friesen told those in attendance.

Bowman congratulated all the participants, volunteers, and organizers. He also spoke about the power of sport.

Jennifer Campbell, president and CEO of Special Olympics Manitoba, calls it a great acknowledgment of the athletes and the work they do. She also says the support they had from fans during the Games meant a lot.