“I came here for the medal! And to make Slovenia proud” proclaims Uroš with confidence and a tender smile. With a history of overcoming challenges through sport, and winning big, Uroš embodies the true energy of a Special Olympics athlete.
A Lifelong Passion for Sports
Uroš had a challenging start to life but life changed when his athletic journey began, upon joining the ‘Training, Work, and Care Center’ in Črna na Koroškem in 1996. During his early years at the centre, he showed a natural talent for physical activity—enjoying swimming, table tennis, hiking and cycling. His introduction to cross country skiing came through his teacher, Ivan, who encouraged him to try the sport. Cross country skiing is a winter sport in which participants propel themselves across snow-covered terrain using skis and poles.
“I train twice a week for cross country skiing, and I cycle three times a week on my own. I don’t like to stop. Go, go go,” laughs Uroš with one of his coaches, Tina Klemenc. “He does not stop running! We ran marathons together and at the end of the race he wanted to keep going. He’s incredible. He trains daily, and tracks every step. His commitment to sport is unparalleled.” In 2009, Uroš won gold and silver medals in the 3 km and 5 km races at the World Games in Idaho, USA. Uroš also took home two gold at Special Olympics Austria National Games 2024.
Uroš has trained relentlessly over the past year, improving his technique and endurance with the help of his many dedicated coaches. With his impressive track record, he’s earned his place among the top athletes of Special Olympics in Slovenia—and indeed across the world.
New Adventures
In life outside of sports, Uroš has also embraced significant personal growth. Due to Slovenia’s deinstitutionalisation process, Uroš moved out of the care center in 2023, and has since been living independently with his partner Irena and two friends in Slovenj Gradec, under the guidance of a guardian. Adjusting to a new environment required courage and adaptability, but Uroš has thrived. Speaking with pride of his daily responsibilities, Uroš works in an integrative employment program at a municipal company, where he enjoys keeping public spaces clean. During the week, Uroš also helps other individuals in the local Work Centre with various activities.
"I enjoy the independence, the space. We have a home together, we have fun," Uroš shares of his new home life. Having a support system and sharing in the joys of the Games is important to Uroš. He takes great care in how those around him are feeling, visiting his fellow teammates in Sestriere daily to catch up and share the day's joys and challenges.
While speaking to Uroš in Pragelato, he is always conscious of what his coach or others might need, offering a helping hand wherever he can. Back in Slovenia, his girlfriend and friends are cheering Uroš on. Here in Italy, his roommate and fellow cross country skier, Drago Jancic, who is also competing at the Games, is also rooting for him.
What’s Next?
At a first glance, Uroš might seem shy as he receives compliments from his coach and fans, but inside he is beaming. Echoing feelings similar to those of his fellow athletes at the Games, Uroš exclaimed, “I hope I can continue to make Slovenia proud. When we walked into the Inalpi Arena at Opening Ceremony on Saturday, I felt so proud to be with the whole team.”
On Friday 14 March, he did indeed continue to make Slovenia proud, competing in the final of the 5 k free technique race and completing the course with a time of 14:16.89.
When asked what’s next after the Winter Games, Uroš doesn’t miss a beat. He reveals with sheer confidence, “I want to compete in cycling. That’s my next challenge.” Watch out cyclists of Special Olympics, here comes Uroš!
