Cyclist Competes in the World Special Olympics
Stacey Weimer, 35, a LIFEPlan member from the Mohawk Valley Region, is among 19 New Yorkers named to Special Olympics USA, the national team that will compete at World Games in Berlin, Germany, June 17-25, 2023. Stacey will compete in the cyclist category this summer.
The Games, alternating summer and winter sports, are a flagship of the global Special Olympics movement, known for its ability to transcend the boundaries of geography, nationality, culture, religion, and politics by bringing communities together in a celebration of inclusion, equality, and acceptance.
Support from Her Care Manager
Stacey said, “I’m very proud to be able to represent our region in New York for the World Games.
Stacey’s Care Manager Ashley Swetmon pointed out that Stacey was given the honor of carrying the torch for the 2023 State Winter Games in Syracuse this winter (seen center in the picture above). “Stacey is very involved in Special Olympics, recently going to Texas for training,” said Ashley. “This is an amazing opportunity for her. She has excellent ties in the community and Special Olympics.”
“It’s been easy to help Stacey stay healthy with her love of competition and physical activity,” said Ashley about one of her primary roles as a Care Manager.
Multi-Talented Athlete
Stacey has competed with Special Olympics New York for over 10 years in bocce, bowling, cycling, snowshoeing, swimming, and volleyball. As a member of Special Olympics New York’s Athlete Leadership Council, Stacey is a courageous advocate in her community.
Active in many sports, Stacey trains for a black belt in karate and enjoys horseback riding. She volunteers at ARISE at the Farm in Madison County, where she assists in the therapeutic riding program.
About Special Olympics
Special Olympics USA is 201 athletes, coaches, and staff from Special Olympics chapters nationwide. The national team will compete in 14 of the 26 sports offered, including eight Unified Sports® teams, where people with and without intellectual disabilities compete together as teammates.
To read more about the New York team, visit the Special Olympics New York webpage.
Ashley is helping Stacey with Core Services: Supporting healthy living and Engaging in community.