Special Olympics GB prepare for World Winter Games
21 athletes from across England, Scotland and Wales have been selected to represent Special Olympics Great Britain (GB) at the 2017 World Winter Games in Austria. 11 Alpine skiers and 10 figure skaters make up the British contingent that will compete at the Games, one of the biggest events on Special Olympics global calendar.
Taking place in Austria from 14-25 March 2017, the World Winter Games is one of Special Olympics global showpiece events. With over 2,700 athletes from 107 nations taking place in nine winter disciplines.
The event will officially commence following a spectacular opening ceremony at Planai Stadium in central ski area of Schladming, and will be hosted by the World's most famous Austrian, Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Special Olympics GB is proud to announce a team of 21 athletes from across the UK will be heading to Austria to compete in two winter disciplines, alpine skiing and figure skating. Along with a delegation of ten coaches and support staff, who will ensure all the athletes are well prepared for the occasion.
Alex Scarborough from Surrey (pictured above), who will represent Great Britain in the alpine skiing event at the Games said:
"Special Olympics has improved my confidence and social skills. It will be a huge achievement for me to attend the World Games. My goal is to become better and to be at my best for this event."
Scottish figure skater, Courtney Montgomery said:
“The Special Olympics World Games is something I can’t wait to experience. The excitement of international competition and learning from other competitors is going to be great. I want to do my best and hopefully make my country proud.”
Tim Shriver, Global Chairman of Special Olympics, said:
“On behalf of our entire Special Olympics movement worldwide, I am thrilled to award our 2017 World Games to Graz and Schladming in the beautiful state of Styria.
“Austria was the first country outside the U.S. to host a Special Olympics World Games and helped us show the world the gifts and talents of our Special Olympics athletes.
“It is fitting that we would return to a country that has demonstrated its commitment to people with intellectual disabilities for decades and will embrace our athletes from around the world.”
Full list of Special Olympics GB athletes for 2017 World Winter Games:
Alpine Skiing
David Corr - England
Anthony Coulon - England
Joanne Desmond - England
James Millard - England
Karen Oosthuizen - England
Rebecca Owen - England
Lauren Payne - England
Alex Scarborough - England
Owen Stephen - Scotland
Lauren Cain - Scotland
Tyler Charleston - Wales
Figure Skating
Steph Gott - England
Eloise Carruthers - England
Jenny Lee - England
Meg McFarlane - England
Callum Mills - England
Calum Titmus - England
Courtney Montgomery - Scotland
Heather McNeil - Scotland
Jonathan McSalley - Scotland
Graeme Watson - Scotland
Follow all the action at the Special Olympics 2017 World Winter Games and the GB team on Special Olympics GB Facebook page. Follow @SOGreatBritain and use #TEAMSOGB on Twitter.
Special Olympics GB is the largest registered national charity providing year-round sports training and competition opportunities for people with intellectual (learning) disabilities. For more information about Special Olympics GB and opportunities for people with a learning disability visit their website.
Photo credit: Special Olympics Great Britain
