Maine Special Olympians return home from games in Italy

PORTLAND (WGME) – Special Olympics athletes and coaches from Maine returned Monday after competing in the world games in Italy.

The three competing athletes arrived at the Portland Jetport Monday afternoon to a very warm reception.

One of those athletes, an alpine skier, shared what made the experience special.

“The snow is a lot more powdery than what I’m used to, but they say if you can ski in the East you can ski anywhere,” Special Olympian Ajay Beaudoin said. “It was amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity and I hope I can do it again soon.”

He placed fifth in two alpine skiing events.

Another athlete from Maine earned a bronze in 200 meter snowshoeing.