thomasina-payne
Thomasina
Payne

SPORT: Speed Skating

PROVINCE: Alberta

HOMETOWN: Clive

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

I have been involved 17 years. I joined Red Deer Special Olympics in 2004.

How is your life different since joining Special Olympics?

Special Olympics has given me access to coaches in sports that I may not have participated in. I have opportunities to travel and compete all over the country and world!

How have you been preparing yourself for competition?

I train 2 to 3 times a week depending on the time of year. My goal for the Special Olympics World Winter Games is to try my best and try to get a medal.

What is the biggest challenge you have overcome in your life?

My biggest challenge was learning speed skating for the first time.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

I am proud that I represented Canada at a Special Olympics World Summer Games and now I will be proud to represent the county at a World Winter Games as well.

What does Special Olympics and attending World Games mean to you?

It is an honour to represent my province and county at World Games, where athletes from all over the world can come together to compete as serious athletes.