Arjan Basra
Local / Community
Surrey
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I got involved with Special Olympics three years ago officially. My sister has been an athlete her whole life, so I grew up helping out wherever I could!
Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, what other National Games were you part of and in what role(s)?
Yes, this will be my first Special Olympics Canada Games!
What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you?
Being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 means a lot to me. Growing up playing sports and having so many amazing coaches support me, it means a lot for me to help other athletes be successful, and take what I’ve learnt and hopefully help them in their journey.
What is/are your goal(s) for National Games?
My goal for National Games is to see Team BC succeed! I want to help my team build lasting memories and push them to be the best athletes they can be.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
My favourite Special Olympics experience to date is seeing the athletes I coach win Gold at the Provincial Games.
What does competing at National Games mean to your athletes? (Or, if this is your first National Games, competition in general)
For my athletes, it shows that hard work does pay off. I know the sacrifices and work they’ve put in, and for it to take them to the national stage means the world. Some of my athletes have been wanting to make it to this level for decades and are thrilled to finally have made it.
What developments are you excited to see in your Team BC sport team leading up to National Games?
I am excited to see athletes from all over the province become united as a team and support each other.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
As a volunteer, I often I feel I get just as much, if not more out of it than the athletes. It is an amazing community, and something you are able to take a lot of pride in being part of.
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