Special Olympics: Speed Skating

What is Speed Skating?

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Speed skating is a competitive sport where athletes race each other on ice skates over a certain distance.  It is a physically demanding sport that requires a combination of speed, endurance, and technique. Skaters must be able to generate a lot of power in their legs to propel themselves across the ice, and they must also be able to maintain their balance and control at high speeds.

The Races and Interview

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We watched many different races, including the 25M Straightaway and the 500M Race to name a few. During this time, I also got an interview with one of the coaches. Heather O'Connell is a hockey coach from Hamilton, New Jersey, and has been part of the Special Olympics program since her daughter,(who is also a Special Olympics athlete) was three. She had known Tommy, one of the racers, and he wanted to skate in the Olympics. She became his coach and made the decision that he should try speed skating. O'Connell's favorite part about the games are seeing athletes succeed and achieve victory, as well as learning new skills. She also is a figure skater.

The Award Ceremony

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After eating lunch, we headed up to a room where they handed out medals to all the winners. It was heartwarming to see everyone's reaction, because everyone ended up getting a medal. After getting back to school, I asked three Peer Leaders what their favorite part of the excursion was. Their answers are listed below.

1. Anish G from 7B  said he loved smiles on their faces after all their hard work paid off

2. Dhruv M from 7B said he loved the awards ceremony and how everyone got a metal

3. Uma M from 7T said she loved seeing how happy they were once they completed the races