Nickell Ends Games with Two Medals

The Special Olympics World Games Torino 2025 have come to an end for Morehead skier DesaRae Nickell and her 1,500 fellow competitors from around the world. On Friday, Nickell was unable to post a qualifying time in the Slalom Divisioning Round, so her medal count for the Games will stand at two – a Bronze in the Giant Slalom and a Gold in the Super G.

Nickell participated in Closing Ceremonies tonight (Italy time) and will return to the United States with the Special Olympics USA team on Sunday. She returns to Kentucky on Monday. Anyone who wants to help welcome her home can be at Blue Grass Airport in Lexington at 12:25.

The Special Olympics World Winter Games gathered over 1,500 athletes from 103 countries to compete in eight winter sports and showcase the determination of people with intellectual disabilities and the power of inclusion through sport. World Winter Games events will be held in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy.

For more information about Special Olympics USA, visit specialolympicsusa.org, join the email list, and follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Hashtag: #Cheer4USA

For more information about the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games or DesaRae’s progress, contact Mark Buerger at mbuerger@soky.org or 502-695-8222.