Rene Girard
Special Olympics Team BC 2020: Speed Skating

Special Olympics BC Local:

Coquitlam

Hometown:

Coquitlam

When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?

In 1992. I joined the softball team.

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 did track and field at the 1994 National Summer Games in Halifax and the 2010 National Summer Games in London, Ontario. I also participated in the 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016 National Winter Games for speed skating. 

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

One gold and two silver. I was excited and pleased. 

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

It makes me work hard to train and I get to visit Thunder Bay with my friends. I love getting medals.

What is your goal for these National Games?

To do my best. I want to make new friends and to see the friends I've made over the years. 

What does competing at National Games mean to you?

I get to travel and have fun with friends. 

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

You get to go fast. 

What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?

I don't really have a favourite, I enjoy it all. I also like to cheer on my fellow skaters.

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

That Special Olympics is a lot of fun, it helps you stay fit, and you get to travel. 

What other Special Olympics sports do you participate in?

Softball, 10-pin bowling, track and field, Club Fit, and cardio training. 

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

I work three days a week for Fraserside on the mobile work crews and one day a week with Horizons doing cooking classes & sports. 

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

Energetic.