The first day of the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games set the tone for what promises to be an extraordinary five days in Calgary.
Opening Ceremony
The Special Olympics Canada Winter Games 2024 kicked off with a spectacular Opening Ceremony at the Nutrien Western Centre at Stampede Park in Calgary, Alberta. More than 1,250 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their coaches and mission staff from every Province and Territory in Canada gathered to celebrate the transformative power of sport. Over 2,500 spectators – friends, family and supporters – filled the stadium seating, cheering them on. The ceremony featured performances by local artists and indigenous communities and of course, the parade of athletes, showcasing the spirit, diversity and talent of our Special Olympics community.
Watch the Highlights from Day 1 of Games
Special Olympics Champions Network Member and Olympian Elizabeth Manley Lead a Figure Skating Workshop with Athletes for Pro-Tips Ahead of Competition
Olympian Elizabeth Manley led a figure skating workshop for athletes yesterday, sharing her expertise and offering valuable tips. Manley, who won a silver medal in figure skating at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, emphasized the importance of mental preparation and focus. The workshop was a valuable opportunity for athletes to learn from a seasoned professional and gain confidence ahead of their competitions.
“To see the athletes out there – it’s so inspiring and it makes you realize there should be no barriers in sport. I remember the feeling of coming to the Olympics in Calgary,” shares Manley. “Now this is their moment and I want to be right there with them, their cheerleader in the stands. I encourage you to come out and see it for yourself – it will change your life.”
Team Canada Speed Skaters Came Out to Skate the Long Track of the Olympic Oval with Special Olympics Speed Skaters Competing in Calgary
In a show of support and camaraderie, members of Team Canada's speed skating team joined Special Olympics speed skaters for a session on the long track at the iconic Olympic Oval yesterday. The special practice was a chance for the fellow athletes to bond and share their love for the sport. Team Canada athletes offered encouragement and advice to their Special Olympics counterparts, creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere.
“I remember looking up to athletes like Catriona Le May Doan when I was coming up,” shared Olympian Ivanie Blondin. “To be able to be that role model for the next generation athletes is such a privilege. I was so happy to come here today to share this moment with these talented Special O athletes.”
Quotes of the Day
Meet Special Olympics athletes Colby Matheson from Team PEI and Yorke Parkin from Team BC - both are first-time National Games participants and sign bearers for their teams.
"It is a great honour to carry the sign for PEI - I am so excited, I am going to hold it so high. I have been training hard and I am going to do my very best at my first National Games," shares Matheson.
"I’ve been skiing with Special Olympics for just three years, so I am very excited to compete at my first National Games. My goal is to have fun, make new friends and get to the Podium," shares Parkin.
Champions Hit the Snowshoe Track in Support
The traditional Celebrity Snowshoe Race was held on the eve of Games!
Special Olympics Canada Champions Network members, Olympians, sponsors, partners and community and corporate leaders took to the snowshoe track to build excitement for the next day’s competition.
Let’s hear it for this incredible group of supporters! 
The Torch Run Final Leg Crosses Alberta to Bring the Flame of Hope to Opening Ceremony
Guardians of the Flame - law enforcement from across Canada along with Special Olympics athlete David Hall - travelled their way through 12 Alberta communities in the lead up to Canada’s largest inclusive multi-sport event.
Last night, they finished their journey and carried the Flame of Hope into Opening Ceremony to light the cauldron and officially kick off Games. 
In the Media
As the Games approach, athletes from across Canada have been making headlines in various news outlets. Here are some notable features:
Global News: Global News: London, Ont. athletes representing province at Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Calgary
Global News: Alberta Special Olympics bowler preparing for stiff competition
Global News: I was ashamed of my disabilities. Then my parents insisted I compete in the Special Olympics
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We look forward to celebrating the achievements of our athletes at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024!