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Marcela Klicperova, Special Olympics Czech Republic. |
At a recent meeting of the Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia Leadership Council (EELC) Marcela Klicperova, an Alpine skier from Special Olympics Czech Republic, was chosen for a two year (2004-2006) term as a Global Messenger. Global Messengers are athletes who act as spokespeople for Special Olympics Programs around the world. Klicperova tells her story below:
“I was born with Down Syndrome. I attended special school and finished school with honors. I also attended evening classes in typing and passed the state examination in typing. I take evening classes in English, German and French.
“I have been a member of an Association for people with mental disabilities for many years. My hobbies are working on the computer, taking photos with my digital camera, and sending e-mails all around the world.
“I would like to use my skills on behalf of Special Olympics. I have been involved with Special Olympics Czech Republic since 1991. Since that time I have been attending regular training in Aquatics, Athletics and Alpine Skiing. I participated in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria in 1993 as well as a number of national games.
“I want more people to share the joy of being a part of Special Olympics. Some years ago I persuaded my friend to participate with my team of skiers at our National Special Olympics Winter Games. He won gold medal and was chosen to be part of our delegation to the 2001 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Alaska!
“Another time I persuaded another friend to participate in our National Special Olympics Summer Games with my swimming team. He won gold medals and he too was chosen for 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Ireland.
“In the future I wish to continue encouraging more and more athletes to be involved in Special Olympics and I wish to promote Special Olympics to people outside the organization.”
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