Lorraine learned to ski on a dry slope at age 11. Dry slopes are open-air, artificial ski runs that are often found across the UK and Ireland, but unlike real snow on the mountains or at indoor snow centres, the slopes are made of small, plastic bristles.
Lorraine joined the Ski Club of Ireland's Special Olympics club in the 1990s, with skiing becoming a pivotal part of her life. “It's been one of the best things that's ever happened to me because I’ve become quite good and I enjoy it.” Achieving a record six medals over the years, at 44 years of age, Lorraine is still doing what she loves at this year’s Games.
Hailing from Delgany near Greystones, County Wicklow, Lorraine's journey to the slopes is a testament to her resilience. In 2018, Lorraine faced a life-altering challenge. Brendan Whelan, Lorraine's father shared, “She was crossing the road, and she was struck by a car. There was a lot of damage to her leg, and the severity of the accident made us unsure as to whether she’d ever be able to ski again.”
However, with unwavering determination, support from her devoted family, and the dedication of coaches at the Ski Club, Lorraine made a remarkable recovery. “We got special boots made for her foot that was damaged, and she was back skiing!”
Beyond skiing, Lorraine is also an accomplished swimmer. When she’s not working at the Bank of Ireland, where she’s worked for 20 years, Lorraine cherishes walking her beloved dogs. “Keeping fit is also important to me. I’m at the gym a few times a week. It’s good for my mindset too.” Lorraine trains twice a week with the Ski Club, with additional training taking place to prepare for the Games.
Lorraine has a powerhouse support team, revealing, “We all ski actually, we’re a skiing family, my mum’s actually up there now”, she laughs, pointing towards the top of the slope.
Lorraine is also supported in Sestriere, by her sister Fiona, her brother-in-law and her nephew. “You can probably hear the cheers all the way from Ireland,” chuckles Lorraine’s dad. Minutes later, athletes and fans from Team Ireland come cheering into view, a burst of vivid green amongst the snow.
“I really enjoy being here. I love the energy, the friends. But I do feel a bit disappointed. I fell today, but I did it, I’m here,” Lorraine reflects, having previously competed in four World Games twice in the USA and also in Japan and Austria. Lorraine’s first wins at the Special Olympics were achieved during the World Winter Games in Alaska in 2001, where she won two silver and a bronze.
Around the finish line of the slopes, music blares and Lorraine dances with gusto, “I did fall, ya, but you’ve got to get up and keep going!”
Team Ireland, Lorraine and the whole Whelan family jetted back to Ireland on Sunday, after the closing of the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, with the Flame of Hope going out in Sestriere. With a mixture of confidence and hope, Lorraine shares, “You’ll see me at the next one.”
