We are now well into year two of the current 4 year Special Olympics cycle. Cory just competed in Special Olympics British Columbia's Provincial Winter Games at Sun Peaks.
But for a few days, it didn't look like he would be able to compete at all. With the Games looming in early February, back in mid-January one of Cory's training team mates crashed into him, resulting in a diagnosis of broken ribs. No skiing for 6 weeks. It was a devastating development, he'd have to wait another 4 years until the next Provincial Games to try to make it to Team Canada again.
A few days later, an x-ray showed bruised ribs, not broken. Painful but not dangerous to resume skiing. But no gate training.
So Cory would get a chance to qualify for the 2024 National Games, but would likely have to race in pain.
Then on the morning of the first race at Sun Peaks, an emergency medical issue required his father be transferred to hospital in Kamloops.
In spite of it all, Cory raced to 3 silver medals, one each in Slalom, Giant Slalom, and Super Giant Slalom. Truly his most golden moment. Racing with no training, in pain, and worry about his father..
He was also able to walk into the Opening Ceremonies in Kamloops with his fellow BC members of Team Canada 2022. The Team never got the opportunity to do that at the Worlds in Russia as they were cancelled so it was a great moment to see the Team walk in to loud applause.
With his local team mates, two of whom were also on Team Canada...
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So now we wait several months to official hear whether Cory has qualified for the National Games next February in Calgary. Which in turn is the qualifying event for the World Games in Italy in 2025.
But with 24 points from 3 silver medals, there are only two other male skiers with more points, and there are usually 5 or 6 male skiers selected. It looks good for his 4th consecutive National Games after Jasper in 2012, Newfoundland in 2016, and Thunder Bay in 2020.
Next up is the CADS Festival in Kimberley, BC in March. Look for an update then.
