Layne Benoit

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

I have been a Special Olympics athlete for 5 years.

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

My mom first got be involved with Special Olympics.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

I had doubts in my performance. I am still working to overcome my challenges, and continue to face them, even if it may not seem possible.

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

The training, achievements, and help that I've obtained along the way.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

That I have better endurance then I thought I did!

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

Being part of Team Canada means to enjoy what you really love to do, and continue to pursue what you enjoy. My goal for Turin is to meet new people and explore new, and to encourage others to do the same.

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

That just because someone struggles to do something doesn't mean that it's not possible. It's possible as long as they're determined enough.

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

No matter the disinterest or interest you have in something always strive to try something new. Just as some people say “don't judge a book by it's cover”, I say “judge it by it's experience”.