India’s Snowboarding athletes shine on Day 1 of Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025

Ranvir Singh 

New Delhi: The Indian contingent commenced its campaign at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games with remarkable performances and achievements. Securing a total of four medals, comprising two gold and two silver medals, on the opening day, the Indian athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and determination in Italy.

Contesting in all 6 of its participating sports disciplines on Tuesday, the Indian athletes took away two gold and two silver medals in the only medal event of the day- Snowboarding, held in Bardonecchia. While Bharti and Sameer grabbed a gold medal each, Hem Chand and Harshita Thakur took home a silver medal in their respective divisions of the Novice Giant Slalom Final.

The victory by Snowboarding athletes has successfully opened India’s account of medals at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games. As the Indian contingent prepares to return to action on Wednesday, the athletes will only aim to make further significant additions to this tally.

A 49-member contingent, comprising 30 athletes and 19 support staff members has been sent to represent India at the tournament in Turin, Italy. The event promises to bring forward around 1500 athletes with intellectual disabilities from 102 countries to participate in eight sports, aiming to promote inclusivity and representation in the sporting world.

With eight sports spread across four venues, Speed Skating and Florball will take place in Turin while Snowshoeing and Alpine Skiing will be organized in Sestriere. Snowboarding and Cross Country Skiing, on the other hand, will be played in the cities of Bardonecchia and Pragelato respectively.