Athletes from across New York State competed in Alpine Skiing during the Winter Games at Swain Resort. The competition was split between three courses of varying difficulty. Before heading down the mountain, coaches, athletes and volunteers were playful and seemed relaxed despite months of intense training. However, when it was their turn to compete all laughing ceased and was replaced by the unmistakable sound of skis on freshly groomed snow. Rocketing past the finish line, skiers pumped their fists smiling from ear to ear and were greeted with enthusiastic spectators cheering, ringing bells, and holding up signs. As a testament to the spirit of the Special Olympics, opposing athletes exemplified sportsmanship, and after the ceremony, parents became paparazzi for their athletes. When asked what the games means to you, I got a variety of answers. Skier Domonic Colleo and his family agreed that it meant, “a lot of fun and a lot of food,” Jennifer Romano said that it meant, “fast,” while 21 year volunteer Jennie Baug said that it meant, “positivity and getting everyone involved.”

– Noah Bogusz

Click an image to enter gallery and see captions.