BC sport continues long tradition with successful Special Olympics in South Korea
BC sport trained athletes account for for 17 per cent of Canadian medals
Surrey’s Kristina Ettema was one of the BC Sport athletes who came home with Special Olympics medals. She won one gold and two silver medals in giant, intermediate slalom and super G . Photo courtesy Special Olympics British Columbia Facebook Page.
The province is congratulating athletes from B.C. who participated in the recently-concluded 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games in South Korea and showed a robust BC sport tradition.
“We’re very proud of the achievements of our B.C. contingent,” said sport minister Bill Bennett. “These Games [sic] not only showcase the commitment of Special Olympics BC in its preparation of athletes, but are a testament to the will, focus and determination of these athletes to be our next generation of community leaders.”
Canada has increased it medal tally from 101 in the last special Olympics to 109 this time around.
The 141-person strong Canadian contingent won 44 golds, 44 silvers and 21 bronze medals during the six-day games held between Jan. 30 and Feb. 5.
“The athletes on Special Olympics Team Canada worked hard for four years to qualify to compete in the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games, progressing through regional, provincial, and national competitions to reach the world stage,” said B.C. Special Olympics CEO and president Dan Howe.
Athletes from B.C. grabbed eight golds, six silvers and five bronze medals in Pyeongchang, demonstrating the strength of BC sports.
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“The B.C. team members were well-prepared and determined competitors who did their province proud as they achieved many medals and personal bests. We are so proud of them and of their dedicated coaches,” said Howe.
Surrey alpine skier Kristina Ettema brought home a gold and two silver medals. She won the gold in giant slalom, and two silvers in intermediate slalom and super G.
Bennett is of the view that the special Olympics are more about sportsmanship than mere performance.
“These Games are more than performances on the ice and snow. They’re about teaching sportsmanship, igniting a passion for doing your best and gaining worldwide friendships that will last forever,” Bennett said.
Category: Sports
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