Bethany Mussell to Represent U.S. in Special Olympics Winter Games

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. — Bethany Mussell from Bloomington, Minnesota, is set to represent the United States in alpine skiing at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games. The event will take place from March 8 to 16 in Turin, Italy, featuring over 1,500 athletes from around the globe.

Mussell, 41, began her alpine skiing journey in her twenties and has been competing for the past 15 years. Despite the challenges posed by a learning disability, she persevered, eventually winning three medals at the Special Olympics Alpine State Ski Meet last year in Taylor Falls.

“Preparing for the Olympics has taken a lot of work, including year-round training,” Mussell said following her final practice at Hyland Hills Ski Area. “I’m feeling really, really excited and anxious. I’ve never been to Italy; this is my first time going to the World Olympics.”

Her excitement is shared by her coach, Berit Dussault, who stated, “Bethany is awesome. I love her, and I’m super excited for her to have this experience.”

In addition to her athletic commitments, Mussell works as a concierge at Kingsley Shores & Place, a senior living community in Lakeville. Residents and staff will hold a send-off party for her on Thursday, February 27, before she departs for Italy on March 4.

Meanwhile, in Meridian, Idaho, Wyatt Wheetley, a 24-year-old Humboldt County Special Olympian, was selected as one of eight torchbearers for the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) leading up to the Special Olympics Winter Games. He will carry the Flame of Hope through various cities in Italy, culminating at the Opening Ceremony in Turin.

“Being part of the LETR Final Leg is an incredible privilege,” Wheetley said. “This journey represents unity, perseverance, and the unwavering support that law enforcement has for Special Olympics athletes.”

Wheetley has been involved in Special Olympics since the age of 7, competing in seven different sports. He expressed hopes of returning to the games as an athlete in the future, potentially in track and field.

His sister, Caitlin Wheetley, praised his achievements and dedication, highlighting his advocacy work for Special Olympics funding in Sacramento. “I’m very extremely proud. Every chance that I get, I’m telling people about it,” she said. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

The Torch Run will commence with the ceremonial lighting of the Eternal Flame of Hope at Zappeion Hall in Athens on February 25. This flame will be blessed by the Pope in Vatican City before being transported through Italy by 81 law enforcement officers and eight Special Olympics athletes.

Wheetley’s journey exemplifies the spirit of the Special Olympics, emphasizing community and support. He shared his excitement for meeting fellow athletes from across the globe in Italy. “I’m most excited to meet the new people I’m going to be visiting with,” he said, referencing the international representation at the games.

The Special Olympics World Winter Games will kick off on March 8, with events scheduled throughout the week, showcasing the talents and determination of athletes worldwide.