Kassidy Rutledge
Local Community
Kelowna
When and how did you get involved with Special Olympics?
I have been in Special Olympics since I was 11. My dad was the swim coach for Special Olympics, and as soon as I was old enough it was the first sport I joined. In the last 15 years, I have done many Special Olympics sports, including Track and Field, Golf, Bocce, Alpine Skiing, Figure Skating, Swimming, Snowshoeing, CC Skiing, and of course Powerlifting.
Will this be your first Special Olympics Canada Games? If not, what other National Games did you compete in, and in what sports?
I was in the Special Olympics National Games in Calgary 2024. I competed in snowshoeing.
What were your results in the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games? How did you feel about your performance?
In the 2025 Summer Games in Prince George, I got gold in my weight division in powerlifting. I was very happy with my performance.
What does being part of Special Olympics Team BC 2026 mean to you?
Being part of a Team BC is very important to me. It shows me that all of my hard work in the gym, and practicing 3 times a week year round has worked. It also means that I will get to be part of a team at Nationals, all working for the same goal, to do our best, and enjoy the experience.
What is your goal for these National Games?
My goal for these National Games is to do my best. I hope to win, and earn a spot on Team Canada, for the World Games in Santiago.
What is your favourite Special Olympics experience to date?
I think my favorite experience in Special Olympics, so far, is standing on the podium at Nationals. But I also really like spending time with my friends and watching them compete.
What do you like most about the sport you will compete in at National Games?
I like how strong powerlifting makes me feel. Powerlifting has given me the opportunity to compete both Nationally and Internationally. I have made so many friends through powerlifting, and I feel accepted at every competition I attend.
What would you say about Special Olympics to encourage someone to get involved?
That Special Olympics is not just about sports, it is also about community and friendship.
Please tell us a little bit more about yourself! What else would you like people to know about you?
I would like people to know that I am a multi sport athlete, a member of the AIC in Kelowna, and that I enjoy public speaking.