For the 1,500 athletes and Unified Partners from nearly 100 nations united in Italy, it is their time to shine on the world stage. For many, it’s the biggest stage on which they’ve ever stood. Their unique journeys to Turin, to this life-changing moment, were all shaped by years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. The stage is now theirs, and our athletes are fully embracing all that the Games have to offer.
From the slopes to the rink, from training to competition, and every moment in between, the spirit of Special Olympics is transcending the city of Turin. As these remarkable athletes step into the excitement of the Games, they’ve shared what they believe are the must-see moments—those experiences that truly capture what the movement is all about.
From moments of triumph to forging new friendships, these are the things you don’t want to miss at the World Winter Games, according to our athletes:
Sportsmanship & Comradery
Visit any of the venues, and you’ll see it firsthand—high fives, fist bumps, and energetic crowds. The sportsmanship at Special Olympics is extraordinary.
Ya-Fang Chang, a Special Olympics Chinese Taipei Athlete, described it as one of her favorite parts of the Games, saying that she loved how “the audience applauds for every athlete, and the interactions between athletes.”
Competition
The World Winter Games feature eight sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing, Short Track Speed Skating, Figure Skating, DanceSport and Floorball. Whether they’re familiar with the World Stage or it’s their first time, the excitement our athletes feel when they step up to compete is unmatched.
“Let’s win!” Tudor Bucur, a Special Olympics Romania Athlete, enthusiastically cheered.
Pin Trading
Pins are a popular item at the World Winter Games, and the creativity and intention behind each design is evident. Athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and friends can be seen proudly wearing their pins throughout the city.
Ewen Barclay, a Special Olympics Canada Athlete, called pin trading one of her highlights of the Games: “All the pins you get to collect, and just save. The memories!”
