West Wake News

Special Olympics North Carolina (SONC) athletes have returned from the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, bringing home medals and ribbons. The event saw participation from nearly 1,500 Special Olympics athletes representing 100 delegations. Among them were SONC athletes Trenton D’Agostino of Watauga County, Stephen Foster of Buncombe County, and Ashley Tanner of Mecklenburg County. These athletes represented Special Olympics USA at the games held from March 8 to 15.

Trenton D’Agostino competed in snowboarding events in Bardonecchia and won a gold medal in both Giant Slalom and Super Giant Slalom, while placing fourth in Slalom. Stephen Foster participated in Alpine skiing events at Sestriere, earning a bronze medal in Giant Slalom and a silver medal in Super G, with a fourth-place finish in Slalom. Ashley Tanner competed at Tazzoli Ice Arena in figure skating events and secured a silver medal for free skating – level 3.

The Special Olympics USA delegates participated across various sports during the World Winter Games including Alpine skiing, cross country skiing, DanceSport, figure skating, floorball, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and short track speed skating.

Since its inception in 1968, Special Olympics North Carolina has been dedicated to improving the lives of children and adults with intellectual disabilities through sports. The organization supports nearly 45,000 athletes statewide by offering year-round training and competition across 20 Olympic-type sports as well as health initiatives aimed at enhancing access to community health resources. Additionally, their Unified Champion Schools program promotes inclusivity among youth with and without intellectual disabilities.