Nicholas is one of the experienced speed skaters joining Team Alberta to compete at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Thunder Bay from February 25 to 29.

Although the team is quite young, Nicholas brings plenty of experience and leadership to the table, having competed for the past 18 years.

This will be his fourth time representing Team Alberta and at 27-years-old, Nicholas’ strong work ethic has him primed for another solid performance at the national level.

He has been training out of the Bob Bahan Aquatic & Fitness Centre in Calgary to make sure he is at his peak when he hits the big stage in Thunder Bay.

Specifically, Nicholas has been working on his bend when he’s speed skating - something that his coaches would like him to improve on.

Beyond working hard, Nicholas tries to always stay active, while maintaining a good mental headspace, and good eating habits to become a better speed skater.

Nicholas’ hard work is in alignment with his long term goals for speed skating and athletics including one major one in particular.

“Representing Canada at the Olympics,” says Nicholas.

With a strong showing in Thunder Bay he may secure that goal and get a chance to travel to Sweden for the 2021 Special Olympics World Winter Games.

Nicholas says his motivation to pursue sports came from his mother as she was always supportive and encouraging in his involvement with sports.

Although, Nicholas says he looks up to another member of his family too.

He has formed a special bond with his mother’s cousin Norm Ladoucer during his time in speed skating.

Nicholas had this to say about why his cousin means so much to him.

“He always travels everywhere to come see me skate and take photos of the races.”

Nicholas has been loving his time with Special Olympics and has met plenty of new friends along the way.

He says everyone should join Special Olympics and to bring a good attitude and work hard when you’re there.

Even though this is not his first time at Nationals, Nicholas does not take it for granted.

“It’s an honour to represent Alberta,” says Nicholas.

He will be aiming to add to his already impressive medal count at Nationals, accumulating 15 medals in the 300, 555, and 777 metre races over the years.

This time around, Nicholas will be aiming for a gold medal when he ties up his skates and hits the rink in Ontario.

Let’s hope he can pull it off, so join us in wishing Nicholas the best of luck in Thunder Bay!

Visit https://www.specialolympics.ca/2020-team-alberta to stay up-to-date with all things Team Alberta 2020.

Join the pack and support the team through fundraising initiatives like Draft an Athlete or Personal Best.

Also, be sure to check out http://specialolympics2020.com/ for all the latest news updates regarding the 2020 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Thunder Bay from February 25 – 29.

Friends and family should follow this link to find out how they can attend games and cheer on Team Alberta!