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Let the games begin!

The 41st Montana Special Olympic Summer Games officially kicked off with opening ceremonies in Bozeman Wednesday, including the nerveracking final steps of the Flame of Hope Torch Run.

Take an arena full of thousands of Special Olympic athletes and supporters, then set aflame the most iconic artifact in the room, the torch.

All eyes shift to you.

"I get nervous," laughed Chester resident and 2011 State Athlete of the Year, Stacey Johnston.

Earlier in the same day she already won a gold medal in golf. She's used to attention--but you can't blame her for some jitters.

The moment arrived, and Johnston carried the torch with Montana Highway Patrol Colonel Mike Tooley.

"At that moment, the place will explode with excitement," said Tooley of walking onto the floor with the torch.

"It's real exciting, it makes your blood just rush," Johnston said.

They soaked it up for a few laps, and then it was up the stairs. Johnston and Tooley held the torch up high, and then plunged it into the cauldron. Everyone cheered.

"If you ever have a chance to score a touchdown in a super bowl or bring the torch in at the Special Olympics. I would think it's gotta feel about the same way," Tooley said.
In Bozeman

The excitement is far from over for Johnston. She competes in the breaststroke Wednesday.

The games continue through Friday in Bozeman.