Greek Peak Mountain Resort in Cortland, N.Y. was 12F as athletes arrived on Saturday morning for their Special Olympics Winter Games competition. As athletes rode chairlifts to their respective race courses at 9:30 am, a dusting of snow fell. Despite the below-freezing temperature, the competition went on, with athletes queuing at the gates for their time trials, and then tearing down the icy slope.

As the day progressed, the sun emerged, and the icy mountain began to warm. The varying temperatures created challenges for the athletes as some celebrated with fast runs while others despaired as they wiped out on the sharp and hard-packed turns.

A core of fans celebrated with noise makers and megaphones as athletes crossed the finish line, and the day culminated with an awards ceremony featuring medals and a champions’ podium.