Parallel to the National Games in Switzerland, the National Games in Austria (March 14-19, 2024) took place. Special Olympics Switzerland was also represented by figure skater Silja Horber. Figure skating is not yet an official sport in Switzerland, which is why it was not offered at the country’s own National Games. However, with a view to the World Winter Games 2029 in Switzerland, figure skating is being developed as a new competitive sport. “For me, it’s personally very moving that Special Olympics is developing figure skating in Switzerland,” says Silja. She describes her participation as a “groundbreaking event.” Her participation in the National Games in Graz required a thorough examination of the Special Olympics regulations, which was new territory for the coaches and Silja herself, and also resulted in a change to her “usual” routine. Her participation in Austria was therefore a leap into the deep end for everyone, and it paid off: “It has shown that it works and that we can be brave,” summarizes Silja. She is very satisfied with her fourth place and is extremely grateful for the enriching experiences she gained.
The huge enthusiasm for the sport is always noticeable with Silja. Figure skating – that is the great passion of the Zurich native or, as she describes it in her own words: “My heart burns for figure skating, when I put on my skates, I just feel good!”. The upbeat figure skater also carries this fire for the sport to the outside world. We are proud to have her as a figurehead for figure skating at Special Olympics Switzerland and congratulate her warmly on her great performance.
