BELARUS: Sports Brings Happiness and Purpose to Athlete’s Life

Olga Davidova is 28 years old and lives in Minsk, Belarus.  She joined Special Olympics in 2000.  Davidova trains and competes in table tennis, bocce and speed skating.  She competed in table tennis at the Special Olympics Belarus National Games (2006) and at the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai (2007).  At the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Boise she competed in speed skating and won a gold medal in the 25 m event.

Davidova is disciplined about her training sessions and never misses a session.  Even though she is focused on her personal performance she always has time to help her team mates.  “Special Olympics gives me the chance to be with others,” she said.  Those who know Davidova say that sport has brought purpose to her life.  Her family is very proud of her and her team mates are honored to call her a friend.

Photo: Olga Davidova. Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Belarus

Olga Davidova