Special Olympics National Winter Games

Special Olympics National Winter Games

The competition fired up this week at Mt Buller when the Special Olympics National Winter Games hit the mountain. This event brought together athletes from across Australia, representing ACT, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and even as far as Western Australia, showcasing their dedication, passion, and unyielding spirit in the face of challenges.

A Gateway to the World Stage

The championships are a qualifying event for the Special Olympics World Games in Turin, set for March 2025. This week was a chance for the Australian athletes to secure their place on the world stage and continue their journey of inspiration and achievement.

Paula McCall from Disabled Wintersport Australia said, “We have 38 athletes competing on Wednesday, and 14 of those athletes will qualify to go to the World Winter Games in Turin in March 2025.”

The Torch of Hope makes its way around the Village Square.

Opening Ceremony

The week kicked off with the Opening Ceremony on Monday in the Village Square. The cauldron was lit by competitor Andrew Negrelli and Senior Sargent Steve Carden, after the Torch of Hope made its laps of the Village Square with the athletes proudly sharing the holding of the torch and cheering with the accompanying police officers. The cauldron was brought up to the mountain by the Victorian Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) police officers. LETR is a worldwide fundraising vehicle for Special Olympics, helping to provide opportunities for inclusion and improved quality of life for children and adults with intellectual disabilities through support for Special Olympics programs and championing fundraising initiatives.

Senior Sargent Stave Carden and athlete and Victorian torchbearer Steve Negrelli after lighting the cauldron together.

Olympian Jacqui Cooper attended the Opening Ceremony and said, “Anytime there’s a flame lit it lights passion, enthusiasm, dedication and it really lights that competitive spirit in the athletes. Whether you’re at the Olympic games, Special Olympics, Paralympics, the lighting of the cauldron really is the beginning of everything. So, it’s a very exciting time today. Good luck to all the athletes!”

Race Day

Wednesday, July 17th, was the peak of the competition with the final races happening in the sunshine on Skyline racecourse. Athletes from Victoria, NSW, ACT, Queensland, and WA competed in various events, demonstrating their skill and determination. Following the races, there was a medal presentation and Closing Ceremony in the Village Square at 2:30 pm. These races are more than just a competition; they are a celebration of the athletes' journey, as well as their family’s and supporters.

Mt Buller last hosted the Special Olympics National Winter Games in 2015 and is thrilled to welcome this incredible event back to the mountain.

Samantha Li at speed on Skyline racecourse.

Noel Landry, General Manager at Buller Ski Lifts said, “I’m really excited that Buller is hosting such a special event, as a community we love to see, share and celebrate the joy of Wintersports. The athletes show true grit and perseverance in making it to the national level of their chosen sport, and I wish the best of luck to those who have qualified for Turin.”

Results to come soon!

Supporting Adaptive Snowsports with Disabled Wintersport Australia (DWA)

For those new to adaptive snowsports, DWA offers access and an invitation to experience the snow. (DWA) is a not-for-profit organisation pivotal in nurturing the snowsport dreams of adaptive winter sports enthusiasts across Australia. Its mission is to make the slopes safely accessible to everyone, regardless of physical or intellectual differences, and “find their freedom on the snow.” With a presence at five major resorts across the country, including Mt Buller, DWA has created a vibrant network of volunteers, guides, and participants.

Partnering with the Ski and Snowboard School, first-timers can book lessons to pave the way to a lifetime of skiing and snowboarding. Joining DWA further enhances the experience, as a personal guide can be arranged to provide tailored assistance. DWA supports adaptive skiers and boarders in various ways, from starting out to providing expert guidance for advanced riders.

Check out the footage from the day below: