Ella Robinson Renaud

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

5 years.

How did you first get involved with Special Olympics and how has it changed your life?

I loved skating since I was a kid and my dad found that Special Olympics did speed skating. Dad signed me up and I have done speed skating ever since. Special Olympics changed my life because it was one of the first sports programs that I really enjoyed. Without it, I wouldn't be training for World Games or have gone to National competitions.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

One barrier I have overcome in speed skating is when I used to always get exausted during the 500m races. Over time, I trained during practice to help me with that race, which has made it easier. 

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My favorite memory was when I made friends with people during the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary. I got to know everyone on my team better and I bonded with them during that week during Nationals.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

I have learned more about perseverance since you have to push yourself to get better in sports. I have persevered more than I would have if I didn't do as many sports.

What does being part of Special Olympics Team Canada mean to you and what is your goal for Turin?

Being a part of Special Olympics means that I am doing sports with people who are neurodiverse like I am. Being a part of Special Olympics Team Canada is a huge accomplishment and my main goal is to try my best and train harder than I ever have before, until I go to Turin.

What do you want people to know about athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities?

I want people to know that the definition of intellectual or developmental disability does not always apply to everyone in Special Olympics. Everyone is unique and the meaning of these words may not apply to everyone – like me, because I do not have any cognitive or neurological challenges. I want people to know that even with disabilities, Special Olympics athletes can do amazing in their sports (or just have fun depending on what their goals are) and should be respected more.

What would you say to someone thinking of getting involved in Special Olympics?

I would simply tell someone thinking of signing up that the athletes are friendly! Try your best to learn what you can about the sport you are signing up for, unless you already have experience.