2026 Winner: Saige Beaumont

In just a few years with Special Olympics BC, Beaumont has made an extraordinary impact on athletes, coaches, and the broader Special Olympics community through her exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and unwavering commitment to athlete development. As Head Coach of alpine skiing in Revelstoke, a Special Olympics Team BC assistant coach at the 2024 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games, and a Special Olympics Team Canada coach at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games, Beaumont has quickly established herself as an inspiring leader and mentor.

"New to the movement but already making a lasting impact, Saige has quickly become the glue that holds the alpine team together," her nominators say.

Beaumont joined Special Olympics BC in 2022, bringing a wealth of alpine skiing experience, having started coaching at just 16 years old. Her extensive coaching background, combined with her passion for inclusion and athlete development, has helped athletes achieve goals they once thought were out of reach.

One athlete whose journey has been shaped by Beaumont's guidance is Revelstoke athlete Yorke Parkin. When Yorke's original coach was unable to attend his first regional competition, Beaumont stepped in with only a few days' notice and helped him achieve his first Special Olympics competitive goal. She continued to support him through the Special Olympics BC Games, the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games, and ultimately all the way to the Special Olympics World Winter Games.

"Without Saige, Yorke would not have been able to compete in alpine skiing. She helped Yorke achieve his first goal: to compete with Special Olympics, and then continued to support him every step of the way."

Beaumont's impact extends far beyond the athletes she coaches directly. At Special Olympics Team Canada training camps, she worked closely with athletes from across the country while also assisting fellow coaches to strengthen their skills and confidence. Her calm, supportive approach helps create an environment where everyone can learn, grow, and succeed.

"She isn't the loudest voice in the room, but she is the steady presence that athletes turn to when they need support, encouragement, or simply someone who believes in them. Her leadership isn't about standing in front. It's about standing beside, making sure every athlete knows they belong."

Beyond sport performance, Beaumont is deeply invested in her athletes' personal growth and well-being. She builds meaningful relationships based on trust, encouragement, and understanding. Nominators note that she helps athletes navigate challenges both on and off the snow, offering guidance that boosts confidence, strengthens self-esteem, and supports healthy decision-making.

"For Saige, Special Olympics has been nothing short of life changing."

Her passion for the movement has been so profound that it inspired her to change her career path to work with children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through every training session, competition, and conversation, Beaumont demonstrates the values of inclusion, respect, and empowerment that are at the heart of Special Olympics.

Special Olympics BC is proud to recognize Beaumont with the 2026 Howard Carter Award, and congratulates all the 2026 award nominees for their hard work, dedication, and achievements.