Special Olympics Washington is proud to announce that Jennifer Lonn will be representing Special Olympics Washington in Cross-Country Skiing at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025. From March 8–15, 2025, this monumental event will bring together over 1,500 athletes from 103 countries, showcasing the remarkable determination and resilience of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It’s a powerful testament to how inclusion through sport can transform lives and inspire the world.

Preparing for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Jennifer shared her training routine: “I’ve been doing lots of walking, Special Olympics Swim team, and exercising. I swim lots of laps to get stronger.” Beyond physical preparation, she thrives on the camaraderie of her teammates on Seattle’s Skihawks Racing Team, where she has cultivated teamwork and honed her skills through various activities like alpine skiing, hiking, and snowshoeing.

With years of experience in cross-country skiing, Jennifer has become an inspiration for new athletes. Her advice to beginners is both practical and motivating: “Listen to your coaches. When you’re down, learn how to get up. Learn how to get your skis in the tracks. Do a lot of walking to get ready.” Her passion for the sport shines through, as she describes the exhilaration of gliding across the snow and the joy of achieving personal milestones.