SPORT: Alpine Skiing

PROVINCE: Ontario

HOMETOWN: Toronto

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

13 years

How is your life different since joining Special Olympics?

After my first Special Olympics soccer practice when I was 13, my Dad asked me how it went and I said, “I belong”. By making me feel that I belong, Special Olympics gives me confidence everyday in everything I do. Special Olympics is not just about sports, it's about life.

How have you been preparing yourself for competition?

I try to train six times a week and on one of those days I work with my personal trainer who monitors and modifies my workout routines. My goal is to continue to build strength, agility and confidence. I am also adding to my training routine by using Special Olympics Canada’s virtual platform, Training Central.

What is the biggest challenge you've overcome in your life?

To be successful at the World Games, I had to develop a mental and physical warm up routine as I waited for my turn to race - with the guidance of Ian Pavlik (former Special Olympics Coach and member of the Canadian National Ski Team). I had to get myself into the zone and remember that I was not competing against the other skiers but against the mountain.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am proud to represent Canada again at the World Games. I am also proud to have been chosen to be part of the Special Olympics Canadian Athletic Leadership Council and the Athletic Leadership Program in Ontario.

What does Special Olympics and attending World Games mean to you?

It's an opportunity to represent my country, say thank you to all those who have supported me on the journey (coaches, ski club, sponsors, fellow athletes etc.) and I want to lead by example to other athletes who are competing and striving to make it to a World Games.