Michael Qing

How long have you been involved with Special Olympics?

25 years.

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

My parents signed me up Special Olympics activities, including swimming in 2000. It improved my growth and life development.

What is a challenge or barrier that you have overcome?

One barrier reduced is my communication and social skills. I made some progress by interacting with other athletes and coaches, and improved my communication standards, but it is still a challenge.

What has been your favourite memory with Special Olympics?

My favourite memory was when I was representing Canada and earned medals and stood on the podium at the Special Olympics World Summer Games.

What has participating in Special Olympics taught you?

Skills that I use on and off the ski hill. When playing sports, I have to listen to the coaches and work with my teammates; at work, I have to listen to my supervisors and work together with my colleagues.

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

Being part of Special Olympics Team Canada means being a representative of your country and role model for fellow athletes. The goal for Turin is to have fun and enjoy the competition as well as be supportive of all my teammates.

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

People and athletes with intellectual or developmental disabilities can learn and have fun, thus we are capable of developing excellence through sports and wellness.

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

I would strongly encourage them to join their local Special Olympics program. To improve their health and wellness, to get interactive and get involved with their community, to bring many laughs or confidence, and to be part of the commitment towards building an open and inclusive society.