Maria Schmitke

Special Olympics BC Local:

Kelowna

Hometown:

Kelowna

When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?

I started when I was about 15 with my mom.

Will these be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, which other National Games did you compete in, and in what sports?

No. I was there in 2008 for skiing, 2000 and 2004 for cross country skiing, and 2018 for swimming. 

What were your results in the 2019 Special Olympics BC Winter Games? How did you feel about your performance?

Two bronze medals and one silver medal. 

What does it mean to you to be part of Special Olympics Team BC 2020?

I'm excited and I'm training hard to get there.  

What is your goal for these National Games?

I want to be fit and ready to race.

What does competing at National Games mean to you?

I'm proud to be an SOBC athlete and representing B.C.

What do you like most about the sport you will compete in at National Games?

I like being with my friends and being outdoors.

What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?

None in particular, but it’s fun watching my friends compete.

What would you tell someone about Special Olympics to encourage them to get involved?

It's fun. 

What other Special Olympics sports do you participate in?

Swimming, basketball, bowling, bocce, and Club Fit.  

Please tell us a little bit more about yourself! What else would you like people to know about you?

I have a dog named Rudy and my partner Roy and I are going to Games together.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself? :)

Determined.