At the Iowa Games competition last weekend, there was a buzz surrounding the discus and shot-put event for boys ten years old and younger.

Although he didn’t win either event, six-year-old Eric Anderson of Palmer showed he had the tenacity of a champion.

Anderson competes in the field events with only one arm, but he does not let the disability dissuade him from doing what he loves.

“Just a few days short of his third birthday, his arm got backed over by a lawnmower,” Eric’s mom said. “Even though he lost one of his arms, he does not let anything stop him, which is great.”

“His enthusiasm and desire to compete is an inspiration,” said Tim Sweet, director of the shot put and discus competition. “It just makes me feel good watching him compete.”

What led Anderson to take up throwing and competing in the Iowa Games?

“The reason why I like to throw so much is because my older sister and brother throw, too,” Anderson said. “I just have a fun time. I also like practicing with my dad.”

While participating in both the shot put and discus keeps him busy, Anderson has a favorite between the throws.

“I like to throw the discus better,” Anderson said. “I like it better because is weighs much less.