At 66-years-old, Austria’s Gerhard Kirnbauer is the oldest athlete at the Special Olympics World Winter Games. Competing in the 100-meter and 200-meter Snowshoeing, he’s showing the world that it is never too late to take on new challenges!
Although he is something of a “late bloomer” at Special Olympics, having joined just four years ago - at the age of 62 - his passion for sports and his determination to succeed make him an inspiring figure at these Games and beyond.
Before joining Special Olympics, Gerhard lived a rather different way of life. He worked as a bricklayer, while still leading an independent and active lifestyle. However, after retiring, living alone became increasingly difficult, and he made the decision to move into the Dornau residential home. It was there that he found both companionship and also a renewed love for physical activity. A passion for the outdoors, his enthusiasm for sports quickly became a central part of his life at Dornau.
"It just brings me so much fun and joy to do sports with others. And at the Dornau residential home, we always have a great atmosphere when doing sports," says Gerhard.
Whether swimming, or now competing in snowshoeing, he embraces every opportunity to stay active and engaged with his community. Combining aerobic activity with the ease of walking over snow without sinking in, snowshoeing is an extension of hiking - an activity Gerhard also enjoys!
“I am very proud to have made it here,” he often says of his time at the Games. His coach, Ernst Lueger, is equally proud, as is all of Team Austria, recognising how much courage it takes to step onto this global stage, especially at Gerhard’s age.
Gerhard shares a close relationship with his niece, Sabine, and despite being unable to attend herself, he makes sure to keep in touch. Since travelling to Sestriere, where the Snowshoeing and Alpine Skiing competitions take place, Gerhard regularly calls her to share updates about his experiences at the Games and sends plenty of photos so she can follow his journey.
Competing at an event of this scale is a new and overwhelming experience for him, but he is taking it all in with pride, and with the support of those closest to him.
Gerhard competed in the divisioning rounds of snowshoeing, an important part of the Games, that ensures athletes are placed in fair and evenly matched divisions. Unfortunately, he was forced to withdraw from the 200m competition on Thursday due to minor health issues, which was naturally disappointing.
"I always give my best," he says with confidence, and that is what truly matters to him. His health improved quickly, and he was eager to prepare for his next competition on Friday, keen for another chance to race and experience the rush of snowshoeing and competing, once again.
“I loved the energy of the Games. I want to experience the same atmosphere and support on Friday, just as I did during divisioning.”
What was once a quiet life, now snowshoeing on the international stage, Gerhard shares: “I won’t forget the feeling of being able to represent Austria and being a part of something so big!“. He feels that he will continue to learn and grow from his experience at the Games. For his fellow athletes, present and future.
Gerhard bounced back on Friday, successfully competing in the 100m Snowshoeing final and completing the course in a time of 38.32. Gerhard’s journey with Special Olympics is a clear reminder of the power of sport and how it brings people together to create lifelong memories - at any age.
