Welcome home and congratulations to our World Champion Special Olympic athletes, says Health and Wellness Minister Doug Currie.
“We are so proud of Alyssa and Ellen for their outstanding accomplishments at the Special Olympic World Games in the Republic of Korea,” said Minister Currie. “Both of these ladies were amazing representatives for Prince Edward Island and for Canada.”
Figure skater Alyssa Chapman of Murray Harbour and nordic skier Ellen MacNearney of Montague were part of Special Olympics Team Canada at the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games in the Republic of Korea. Alyssa and Ellen both brought home medals from their respective competitions.
Alyssa took home gold medals in both Ice Dancing Level 2 and in Singles Level 3. “I had a great time and wish I could have stayed longer,” said Alyssa.
Ellen won a gold medal in the 1KM Freestyle Cross Country, with a time of 4 minutes and 53.72 seconds, as well as a bronze in the 500 M Freestyle Cross Country, with a time of 3 minutes and 38 seconds. Ellen also finished fourth in the 4 X 1KM Relay.
“The Games had a lot of tough competition,” said Ellen. “We got very close to our Korean volunteers because we spent a lot of time together. We traded pins and clothing with other athletes and we exchanged addresses with our new friends.“
“I want to thank all of the many dedicated coaches, staff, trainers and volunteers, both nationally and locally, involved with Special Olympics,” added Minister Currie. “Special Olympics exemplifies the spirit of fair play, excellence and inclusiveness. Our department is a proud supporter of Special Olympics PEI and their mission to ensure that every Islander with an intellectual disability has access to sport and recreation programs.”
For more information on Special Olympics PEI, visit their website www.sopei.com.