Local athletes participating in Special Olympics Alberta Winter Games

Jan 31, 2019 | 2:41 PM

Two people from Grande Prairie will be making their way to Calgary for the Special Olympics Alberta Winter Games.

A send-off ceremony was held at the Goodwill Store in Grande Prairie Thursday, where the community came together in support of special Olympic athletes Steve Grandjambe and Chris Mckee.

Goodwill Store Retail Manager Dee Hopkins says it’s a pleasure to know both Steve and Chris.

“I met Steven back in December,” says Hopkins. “He’s actually working in our donations department. He’s a very delightful, quiet, reserved young man. Chris, I’ve known probably for a good two years or more. Chris and I go way back, he’s very adamant in the community and volunteers.”

The two athletes are also well-known by Career Connections Program Coordinator Ashley Cawthorn, who says they are excited to make their return to Calgary and represent the Swan City.

“I’ve known Steve for two years now. He’s part of the Career Connections Program. We’ve seen him off to a couple of Special Olympics tournaments and he’s always very excited. Chris has been part of the Career Connections Program for 13 years. He volunteers in the community and is a great person to be around. Always happy,” says Cawthorn

Steve will be competing in bowling and Chris is competing in floor hockey as a goalie.

The Special Olympics Alberta Winter Games run from February 8 – 10.

The athletes head to Calgary next week.

by Justin Dionne