Multiclass & Special Olympics athletes light up Interschools

If ever you wanted a true example of the camaraderie and sense of sportsmanship which Interschools stands for, it was evident after lunch on Front Valley at Perisher when the Multiclass and Special Olympics races took place.

Whether ultra-competitive or just participating, nearly every competitor crossed the line with a smile on their face listening to words of encouragement beckoning from beyond the barriers.

More than 40 competitors entered this year's events at the Subaru Australian Interschools Snowsports Championships, one of the biggest fields in recent times.

The athletes competing were fortunate to have Australian and International athletes act as their forerunners including Georgia Gunew and guide Ethan Jackson who broke through for their first World Cup podium last season.

As the opportunity progressed, the pair reflected on the privilege it was for them to be part of such a special competition.

"It’s a pretty cool experience getting to come out here and forerun in front of all these upcoming athletes," said Gunew. "It’s really fun to see everyone’s progress over the series."

Jackson added: "As someone who’s grown up through Interschools, it’s really great to be able to get back and forerun. The progression is just there for people to go all the way and there’s a lot of potential out here."

Gunew reflected on her time Interschools career which she says was always a massive thrill to be a part of. 

"I did a few Multiclass Interschool races as I was coming up," she said. "When I lost my vision I came down here from Queensland and I was definitely the only person from my school here but gave it a crack and always had such a blast."

Having watched a number of the talented athletes show their wares at Perisher today, Jackson doesn't think it will take much for some of the competitors to turn potential into performance.

"Anything’s possible - you put in the hard work and you’re out here already; start building the foundations off-snow, on-snow you can do a lot," he said. "And you can make it big - it’s really possible."