Bethany Mussell embraces a fellow Alpine Skiing athlete on the award stand at Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy.
Minneapolis, MN — March 26, 2025 – Four Special Olympics Minnesota athletes have returned home after an incredible experience at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy, held from March 8–15, 2025. Competing against top athletes from around the world, these inspiring individuals showcased their talent, determination and sportsmanship while bringing home medals and strong performances.
The Minnesota delegation was part of Team USA, which included approximately 160 people—101 athletes, 32 coaches, and 27 support staff members. The Minnesota athletes competed in snowshoe and alpine skiing, bringing home impressive results:
- Bethany Mussell (Bloomington, MN) – Alpine Skiing (Intermediate)
- 4th Place: Giant Slalom
- 4th Place: Slalom
- 5th Place: Super G
- Christopher Knoll (Stillwater, MN) – Alpine Skiing (Novice)
- 4th Place: Giant Slalom
- DQ: Slalom
- 4th Place: Super G
- Michael Froehling (Hastings, MN) – Snowshoe
- 5th Place: 400M
- Gold: 200M
- Bronze: 4x100M Relay
- Drew Hennen (Shakopee, MN) – Snowshoe
- 7th Place: 400M
- Silver: 200M
- 5th Place: 4x100M Relay
“These athletes have worked so hard to reach this level, and we couldn’t be prouder of their performances in Turin,” said Bill Fish, President & CEO at Special Olympics Minnesota. “Their dedication and sportsmanship truly embody the spirit of Special Olympics, and their achievements are an inspiration to all of us.”
In addition to the four athletes who competed in World Games, Richard Martin from Hibbing, MN attended the games as a participant in the Law Enforcement Torch Run® Final Leg. As part of the Final Leg team, Martin carried the prestigious Flame of Hope through various cities in Italy leading up to Opening Ceremonies. Martin was joined by Nancy Carlson, a local law enforcement officer from Forest Lake Police Department. Only eight Special Olympics athletes and eighty-one law enforcement officers from around the world were selected for this honor.
The Special Olympics World Winter Games is one of the largest international sporting events for athletes with intellectual disabilities, offering them the opportunity to compete, build friendships, and celebrate their abilities on a global stage.
About the Law Enforcement Torch Run®
The Law Enforcement Torch Run® for Special Olympics is the largest public awareness and grassroots fundraising movement for Special Olympics, engaging law enforcement worldwide to champion acceptance and inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
About Special Olympics Minnesota
Special Olympics Minnesota provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, and experience joy.
