Hi! I’m Andre, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. I first got involved through a co-worker at my dad’s old workplace, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 19 years. Special Olympics has impacted my life — yes. One of my proudest moments was deadlifting 501 pounds at the World Games in Abu Dhabi. I have …
Alex Bevacqua
Hi! I’m Alex, and I compete in Powerlifting for Team Ontario. My dad signed me up, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for seven years. Special Olympics gives me a chance to compete in competitions. One of my proudest moments has been getting very strong. Being part of Team Ontario makes me very happy. My advice? Get very …
William Ypma
Hi! I’m William, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I first got involved through Community Living in Tillsonburg, and Special Olympics has become a special part of my life. I’ve competed at Nationals before in 2018 for Bocce, and now I’m proud to represent my community again — this time in Golf. One of my proudest moments has …
Vincent Calio
Hi! I’m Vincent, and I’m part of Team Ontario in Golf. I was introduced by Stan Smith to be part of the Milton golf team, and I’ve now been involved for three years. Special Olympics is the most fulfilling experience I have ever participated in. One of my proudest moments was being a 3× All American at Penn State University …
Timothy Maracle
Hi! I’m Timothy, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved in 1992 with 5-pin bowling and have now been part of Special Olympics for 32 years. Special Olympics has helped me speak more and become an ambassador for Special Olympics. One of my proudest moments was going to Nationals. I have participated in Nationals in …
Tess Trojan
Hi! I’m Tess, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I first joined Special Olympics when I was 12, starting in 5-pin bowling, and I’ve now been involved for 25 years. Special Olympics has opened many doors for me. One of my proudest achievements was winning my first Gold Medal at the World Games. I work as an usher …
Shane Ellins
Hi! I’m Shane, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I can’t remember how I first got involved, but I’ve made lots of new friends through Special Olympics. One of my proudest moments has been being able to play. Being part of Team Ontario means a whole lot. My advice? Have fun and try your best.
Scott Gowing
Hi! I’m Scott, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I first got involved because I wanted to play baseball, so I joined softball — and that started my 23-year journey with Special Olympics. Special Olympics has helped me stay active and build many friendships. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal for golf at Provincials. …
Ryan Uttley
Hi! I’m Ryan, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario! I was introduced to Special Olympics in high school, and I’ve now been involved for 10 years. Special Olympics has helped me gain confidence and grow as an athlete. One of my proudest moments was taking home gold at the Provincial Games — and continuing to push myself forward. …
Ray Bazinet
Hi! I’m Ray, and I compete in Golf for Team Ontario. I first got involved through softball, and I’ve now been part of Special Olympics for 32 years. Special Olympics has given me more confidence. One of my proudest moments was winning a gold medal in golf at my first SONA in South Carolina. I previously competed in 2012 Curling …

