Hello everyone, I hope that everyone had a great weekend. Today I thought about writing a post for my blog. This past weekend was the 2023 Special Olympics BC Winter Games in Kamloops BC. This was the first provincial games in person that has happened in four years. This is the fifth time that Kamloops has hosted the games and it so happens that they are also Canada’s tournament capital. There was approximately 500 athletes that were competing in eight winter sports 5-pin bowling Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Curling, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowshoeing & Speed Skating. Along with all the athletes there was also approximately 150 coaches and mission staff that also took part. I know that all of the athletes really appreciated the volunteers that took part in the games this past weekend. There was approximately 800 volunteers that made the games possible with all of their hard work and dedication. The opening ceremony was on Thursday night February 2 at the Tournament Capital Centre. Then the competition was on both Friday & Saturday. The athletes were extra excited that they were finally able to compete against other athletes across B.C. after four long years since the last provincial games were held. Then the closing ceremony was on Saturday night. I know that for a lot of those athletes they really enjoy being able to dance and is often  one of the athletes favourite activities during the games. As a former Special Olympics athlete myself I know that it wouldn’t be possible without all the dedicated volunteers that take time out of their own busy schedules to make the games happen for all of us. We appreciate all the countless hours that you do in order to make this possible for us, so thank you. Another thing that we do appreciate is all the volunteers who come out to all of the sports through out the year. Without all of you there wouldn’t be any programs for us to take part in. For anybody who is unfamiliar with Special Olympics. Special Olympics host sport programs and competitions year round for individuals with intellectual disabilities around the world.To anyone who hasn’t attended Special Olympics I encourage you to go check out your own local Special Olympics sports programs and cheer on the athletes.They really do love having people come out and watch them compete. I promise you that you won’t regret it. If you are unable to come out to volunteer you can also make a donation to your own local Special Olympics programs as well. We also have other special events through out the year to help fundraise to Provide opportunities for the athletes to travel , have uniforms , and attend competitions and practices in their local. please visit http://www.specialolympicsbc.ca for more information.
~Crystal~