Special Olympics ski competition at Owl’s Head
For the past 16 years Owl’s Head has played host to a Special Olympics Ski program, offering an opportunity for Townshippers with intellectual and developmental impairments to enjoy the thrill of competitive downhill skiing.
The program was started by Arthur Zentner. In its first year, there was one skier, Art's son Emmett Zentner, and one volunteer, Art. Over the years the group has grown to close to a dozen athletes and twice as many volunteers.
This Sunday, 10 skiers from Owl’s Head Special Olympics program will strap on their skis and compete against over 30 competitors from other clubs from across Quebec for the first race of the season.
According to Sally Crocker, a volunteer for the local program, the races will begin at 10 a.m.
There will be two slalom races and two giant slalom races, she said.
“We have some strong skiers, and some that are new and just learning,” Crocker said.
The skiers range in age from eight or nine to 45-50-years-old. There is an equal balance of male and female participants, Crocker added.
“We’re very fortunate to be here,” Crocker said, looking back on the program’s 16 years at Owl’s Head.
The Special Olympics program at Owl’s Head includes training sessions throughout the ski season in addition to the competitions. This year there will be two; the upcoming race at Owl’s Head on Sunday and another competition to be held at Mont Blanc in March.
Crocker said the competition is a good opportunity to get the word out to other Townshippers about the program, and also do a bit of fundraising. The local club will sell cookies and snacks at the race, she said.
“It’s not a babysitting service,” Crocker said, explaining that being part of the club requires as many volunteers as skiers.
Crocker invited members of the public interested in supporting the special Olympians or learning more about the club is welcome to stop by the competition this coming Sunday at Owl’s Head. The races will begin at 10 a.m. and continue throughout the day.