3 North Alabama figure skaters prepare for the Special Olympics

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) – Only eight figure skaters are representing the United States at the Special Olympics World Games in Italy, and three of them call North Alabama home.

“We’re going to the World Games in Italy!” figure skater Beth Allen said.

Deeb Habchi, Cody Wheatley and Elizabeth Allen will compete in March, breaking barriers and achieving goals some never thought possible.

“This whole experience has been great from day one,” said figure skater Deeb Habchi.

The entire country will be cheering them on and excited to see them achieve their dreams and be recognized at the global level.

“There are no words,” said Heidi Parker, head coach of the Alabama Special Olympics figure skating team. “My heart explodes with pride for her. And just seeing all their hard work come to fruition on the world stage.”

Parker has worked with Special Olympics skaters for over two decades. She said she came across the opportunity by chance and never looked back. She noted how it changed her life; Your relationship with the participants goes far beyond ice skating.

“To me, they’re not just skaters,” Parker said. “You are part of my family and part of my heart.”

The skaters each perform a routine alone for one minute. The jury decides on the winners based on these performances. But the medals are not the focus. Special Olympics lives by the oath: “Let me win.” But if I cannot win, let me be courageous in trying.’

For these skaters, courage means doing what some consider unattainable.

“Beyond anything we ever imagined, or even the doctors said she could do,” said Shannon Allen, Beth’s mother.

Parker shared that some people with special needs may feel overlooked and underconsidered. The Special Olympics allows them to be valued, celebrated and recognized for their talent and hard work.

“The biggest thing about any Special Olympian is that they just want their chance,” Parker said. “You know, they just want to be seen like everyone else.”

For those who want to achieve their goals and reach heights some consider unimaginable, Cody has one thing to say.

“Never give up and keep striving,” said figure skater Cody Wheatley.

The group will launch from Rocket City in March. The games begin on March 8th, but there is still no official schedule with the exact date of the competition.