Essex County residents to represent Canada at Special Olympics in Italy

The Special Olympics World Winter Games in Torino, Italy, is two weeks away. Two Essex County residents will be there. CTV Windsor’s Stefanie Masotti reports.

The 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Torino, Italy, are just a few weeks away, and two Essex County residents will represent Canada on the world stage.

Sixteen-year-old Breanna Williams hopes her figure skating routine will put her on the podium at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Torino, Italy.

She solidified her spot on Team Canada after taking home gold at the national games in Calgary.

She now has two weeks to perfect two performances before competing against other top athletes from around the world.

Williams’ coach says that skating is her outlet and that her specialty is spinning.

Meanwhile, Essex County OPP Constable James Chauvin won’t be competing, but he does have a special role to play.

“We fly into Italy, flying into Rome, and we’re meeting with the Pope. He’s going to be blessing the torch,” said Chauvin. “Then we’re taking the torch on the train and bringing it to Torino on February 27th.”

Chauvin is being recognized for spearheading the local Polar Plunge fundraiser, which has raised $500,000 locally since its inception.

“The opening games are on March 8th. The following day, we have our Polar Plunge. And then we’ll be doing a Polar Plunge in Italy to raise funds for Special Olympics as well.”

Chauvin has also organized several Law Enforcement Torch Rides, NHL Alumni Games, and other fundraisers to help support Special Olympic athletes.

As for Williams, her coach says this year’s games are just the beginning – she’s one of the youngest on the team, and her potential is endless.