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Jonathan’s joy at Special Olympics slot
Airdrie skater Jonathan Higgins was ‘ecstatic’to hear he’s heading for the Special Olympics in Russia in 2022 and can’t wait to be a GB athlete.
Jonathan, 22, is paired up with Jennifer Gibson from Motherwell for the event, which takes place in Kazan in January 2022.
It will involve a lot of intensive training, but Jonathan, who has been skating for seven years and with Jennifer for a year, can’t wait to get stuck in.
He said:“it’s very good news, it was a big shock and I was ecstatic when the email came through.
“That’s the point in taking part in it, so fingers crossed, and it would be amazing to come back with something from it, so I will try my best.”
Jonathan won two gold medals at the Special Olympics Invitational Games in Sweden earlier this year alongside Jennifer, but says this is the pinnacle.
He said:”it’s a massive achievement and I’m looking forward to seeing people from the different countries.
“I’ve never been to Russia before, so I want to see the people from different countries, different cultures and it will be really good, but taking part is the thing.
“It will involve loads of training, two to four times a week, but it’s something I’m looking forward to – I can’t wait to be a Team GB athlete.”
Jonathan and Jennifer skate at the Inclusive Skating Club in the Time Capsule, Coatbridge, and he’s looking forward to the opportunity.
He said:“jennifer and I are a pairs couple and it’s simple for us to do that, so it’s good news.”
The pair are part of a six-strong team that also includes Courtney Montgomery from Cumbernauld.