Happy New Year Casper!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday time.

I have a few updates on things happening in the world of Casper Special Olympics.

Winter Sports

Snowshoeing has started! If you haven’t joined Snowshoeing yet, but would like to, it’s best to contact Coach Wally at 307-267-8519.

For anyone wishing to volunteer as a coach or assistant at Snowshoeing, please contact me to get started.

Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding starting soon! The latest update from our Alpine/SB Coaches: “Alpine Ski and Snowboard athletes! We are patiently waiting for more snow and for more runs to be open at Hogadon. Watch for updates and to practice start! Until then get that gear ready, clean those goggles and stretch those legs!
VERY important you confirm with Casper Special O (Cathy) if you are training and or competing with us this year. This is important so we can cover coaching needs. Please make sure you let Cathy with Casper Special O know!”

Please contact me if you would like to participate as an Athlete or Coach with Alpine/Snowboard. My contact info below. And do your best snow dance, hopefully we are starting very soon!

Competition
• Winter Area V Games is set for Feb 11 on Casper Mountain. More details coming soon! Area games are a requirement to attend Winter State Games.

• Winter State Games will be Feb 27 – 29 in Jackson, WY. Winter Games (sowy.org)

o Very Important: If you plan to attend Winter State Games as a Coach or Athlete, please contact me to get on the Hotel Block room list. I’ll be making the Casper team hotel room reservations in the next week. Rooms fill quickly. Please let me know as soon as you can.

Casper Program Fundraisers

Jackelope Jump Casper – Feb. 16, 2024
Individuals and Teams can register here: 2024 JJ CASPER Fundraising Campaign for Special Olympics Wyoming (sowy.org)
The coolest fundraiser around is about to begin! Raise funds for over 1600 athletes in Wyoming by jumping into frigid water! In 2024 we’re excited to announce the jump motto – “Inclusion! Give it a Try, Wear Jackalope Jump Tie-dye!”
This is one of the best ways to directly support the Casper Program!

We are also looking for volunteers to support the Jackelope jump, leading up to the event and day-of. Event coordinators are needed to work with staff to help procure food donations, recruit teams, and help with general event organization. Local volunteer event coordination helps ensure more funds directly support the Casper Program. Contact me if you have any interest to help with the event.

Trail Mix Run May 18, 2024
The 2024 Trail Mix Run will mark the 14th year this race has been held! The Trail Mix Run is excited to partner with Special Olympics Wyoming, Area 5! All donated funds will stay in Natrona and Converse Counties supporting local athletes in their endeavors.
We will host the 10 and 3 mile mixed surface routes, as well as the 3 mile accessible route open to wheelchair and stroller use, from Mike Sedar Park in Casper. We also offer a virtual option; we have had participants from all over the nation in the past 4 years! These routes offer a glimpse into trails right in the middle of our city.

For more information and to register: 2024 Trail Mix Run Wyoming Registration Page (raceentry.com)

Please contact me with any questions or to get involved.

Thank-you,

Cathy Nyrkkanen
Area 5 Director
area5@specialolympicswy.org
307-215-4054