Two local athletes will be representing Thunder Bay at the upcoming Special Olympics in Kazan, Russia.
Amy Cizmar (Alpine Skiing) and Tyler Rissanen (Snowshoeing) both earned their spots on the team during the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games that took place in Thunder Bay in Feb. 2020.
This is a historic achievement, as they will be the first two athletes to compete on the world stage from the Special Olympics Thunder Bay chapter.
Community Coordinator Rob Neff explains what this accomplishment means.
“Their achievement is the result of their hard work and dedication, and also a credit to their coaches, families and fellow athletes who support them,” says Neff. “We are so proud of them and know they will be wonderful ambassadors for our chapter, our city and our country.”
Amy Cizmar has been part of the Special Olympics for almost 11 years and is happy with how far she has come, explaining there is a lot that goes into being able to compete at this level.
“This is such a joyful moment for me because this is my first time going to Worlds,” explains Cizmar. “To get ready for the competition, I do bounce [trampoline] every day in the morning and go to the gym sometimes. I work with my training coach and am happy to have help from my family too. Soon I’ll get to be back on the hill and will hope to go three times per week.”
Cizmar goes on to say it would be an amazing experience to be on the podium, and it is something that drives her in her training.
Rissanen too has been working diligently to prepare for the international event.
“I’ve been working weekly with a running coach, a personal trainer and a conscious living coach—cross-training, running, hiking, golfing, swimming—everything you can name, I’ve done it. I’ve been busy,” says Rissanen. “I’ll be able to get back to snowshoeing soon and will do that once or twice a week.”
He concluded by saying he is grateful to have the support of friends, family, coaches, volunteers, and other athletes.
More information about the Team Canada athletes can be found here.
