Figure skaters dressed in brilliant costumes are waiting for their turns to practice before performing their program.


[Interview : Chien Shihyu, Taiwanese participant] "I've prepared something very, very beautiful and graceful.

These athletes flew from Taipei to take part in the Pre-Games for the 2013 Pyeongchang Special Olympics.


[Reporter : Song Ji-sun
song@arirang.co.kr] "It does not take landing a triple axel to be on the ice here because each and every stroke means just as much for these skaters."

The scenes on the snow are not too different from those on the ice.

They may fall down, crash, or even drift outside the lines but they get right back up and take another turn to complete the race.

The Special Olympics differ from the Paralympic Games because it is a non-elite event for the intellectually challenged, such as those with autism or down syndrome while the Paralympics are a competitive event for the physically challenged.

But the spirit is alive and well among these athletes -- regardless of their mental or physical state.


[Interview : Mun Chang-hyeon, Korean participant] "I could've raced faster, but I'll definitely do better the next time."

Turns out his dash was more than enough to put him on the podium.


[Interview : Mun Chang-hyeon, Korean participant] "I'm so happy that I won. I think I won because I did not fall down."

And the initiative of these athletes brings about significant change to their families.


[Interview : Ryu Hee-soo, Mother of a participant] "Sports is definitely something all children with intellectual disabilities should try out.
It improves their social and learning skills noticeably and I've come to learn that there is something my son is really good at."

Song Ji-sun, Arirang News, Pyeongchang.

Reporter : song@arirang.co.kr