The Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Torch Run stopped in Airdrie at George McDougall High School.

Jacky Vang, a learning support teacher at the school and one of the event organizers explained the torch stopped at the school because it is a Unified Sports School; which means that the school partakes in modified sports through a division of the Special Olympics.

"I think it (the torch run) is a wonderful event for our community and is well deserved for all the athletes taking part."

According to Vang, the torch run is a special event to have in the school as it celebrates Special Olympic athletes from all over the country, including those in Airdrie.

"It gives them something to work towards. One of our speakers Gracie (who goes to school at George McDougall and is a part of Airdrie Special Olympics) is hoping to qualify for provincials. Her dream is to be an athlete at a national or international level."

The games are taking place in Calgary starting today until March 2. More than 4,000 attendees, including athletes, coaches, officials, and mission staff, along with their families and friends gather in the city south of Airdrie for eight different sports.

Airdrie will have a total of five athletes partaking in the games. They will be looking to bring home the gold in 5-Pin Bowling. These are the five athletes (last names are withheld for confidentiality reasons):

  • Brendan 
  • Christian 
  • Luke 
  • Jayden 
  • Evan 

While not participating in any sports, members of Special Olympics Airdrie, Emma, Chelsea, Bailey, Ava and Will have been named to the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Cheer Team.

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