Katie Xu

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

20 years

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

I have heard from friends and registered Special Olympics Skating program to learn skate. It is fun to join the group.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

I love to do working on skills, communicate, learning how to do some goals, have fun with my teams, do some teamwork, and have a good time.

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My favorite Special Olympics memories from my past experiences at Games are: winning lots of medals, learning how to compete, doing my best at the competitions, travelling around the world, spending time with my teammates and coaches, making friends, and being proud with my family, friends, and coaches. I have been to a Special Olympics World Games in Austria in 2017. I captured 1 gold and 2 silver medals. I am so excited to have earned my spot on Special Olympics Team Canada 2025 for the chance to bring home more medals from the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

What I’ve learned from playing sports is to work hard, never give up, and be a good team member. I use these skills outside of sport in my school/college and employment. At work I learn new skills from fellow team members when we work hard and help each other. At school I work hard and try my best, I never give up if I make mistakes and I focus on being the best student I can be and work together with my classmates.

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

I am so proud to be on Special Olympics Team Canada and happy to represent my country. My goals for the Games in Turin are to work hard, compete, win more medals, do My best, and learn how to stay focus, calm and in control.

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

I want people to know that athletes are working hard, training hard, and competing hard. We want to be a best person we could be. Please support us and give us an opportunity. Thank you!

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

It is fun place to push yourself, train hard, meet new people, compete and show what you can do.