In a remarkable display of determination and skill, a group of Emirati athletes made history at the Special Olympics World Winter Games held in Turin, Italy.
Despite the extreme challenges posed by competing in snow-based sports for the first time, the UAE delegation returned home with an impressive 16 medals, including four golds, securing their place as one of the standout teams in the region.
The team, comprising 11 athletes with determination, competed in six sports: Alpine Skiing, Snowshoeing, Figure Skating, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowboarding, and Short-Track Speed Skating.
Their journey to the Winter Games was preceded by rigorous training sessions across diverse locations, including Ski Dubai, Uzbekistan, and Italy, which played a crucial role in their success.
Among the standout performers was 23-year-old Meena Al Mazrouei, who competed in snowboarding. She recalled the intense physical and mental demands of the sport, especially during a particularly challenging moment when she felt overwhelmed by exhaustion.
“I began crying—I felt like I couldn’t breathe,” Meena shared. “But Coach Lina told me to take 10 deep breaths, and I felt better. That moment taught me the power of staying calm under pressure.”
Salma AlSlami, 20, also impressed the crowd with her resilience. Despite suffering a severe injury to her toe just before the competition, she secured both a silver and a bronze in snowshoeing.
“The pain was intense, but I told myself: either the injury wins, or I do,” Salma said, overcoming not just physical pain but also the challenge of thick fog that hindered her visibility. “I needed glasses to see better, but I pushed through and never stopped.”
For 33-year-old Zalikha AlMansoori, the Winter Games marked her first appearance on the global stage, and she made it memorable by winning a gold medal in Cross-Country Skiing.
Selected by the committee after showing promise during training, AlMansoori credited her family’s unwavering support as a key factor in her success.
“They believed in me. They were always by my side,” she said, reflecting on the sacrifices her family made, driving her from Ras Al Khaimah to Dubai for training sessions.
Her family also recalled the skepticism the athletes faced prior to the Games. “Competitors said, do you really think you’ll win medals coming from the desert?” they shared.
“But the victory proved otherwise. They showed they have the will and strength. This gave them the push to keep going.”
Abdullah AlNuaimi, 23, was another top performer, winning both gold and bronze in snowboarding. His father, Walid Al-Nuaimi, explained how Abdullah’s journey began at the People of Determination Club in Ras Al Khaimah.
“He was hesitant to travel,” Walid recalled. “But I told him this is not just a trip; it’s an opportunity to represent the UAE.” Abdullah’s triumph in overcoming his fears resonated deeply with his family, marking a significant milestone in his personal growth.
The success of these athletes would not have been possible without the unwavering support of their families.
Hamda Al Hosani’s mother, whose daughter has competed in the Special Olympics since 2008, shared how she couldn’t travel with her daughter but prayed for her success every day. “She trained in freezing temperatures and came back stronger,” she said.
The Winter Games proved to be a defining moment for these athletes, showcasing not only their athleticism but also their resilience and determination.
From the desert to the snow slopes, the UAE athletes have captured the hearts of many, proving that with determination, anything is possible.