Colchester Institute Lorina Gladin wins Olympic Skiing comp

Lorina Gladin, 16, was diagnosed with autism and dyspraxia when she was young and was told that she would likely not be able to even ride a bike due to her balance and motor skills.

However, the Little Yeldham resident has risen above her disabilities to claim gold at the Special Olympics Great Britain National Winter Games

An avid skier, Lorina was inspired to take up the sport by her young sister, Amber, who herself is considered on of the fastest young skiers in her class.

The Special Olympics is the third Olympic movement and is for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Held in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, from February 4 to 6, athletes in the competition are categorised by their ability rather than age.

There are three categories - advanced, intermediate and novice.

Competing in the female intermediate division one, Lorina won gold in the slalom and giant slalom and picked up a bronze in the super giant slalom as well.

Perhaps most impressive about the victory is that this was the Braintree College Student's first time skiing on "proper" snow, having only previously skied on indoor slopes.

Lorina's mum, Natalie Gladin, was exceptionally proud of her daughter's achievement.

She said: "Lorina started skiing two and a half years ago as we were always at ski slopes with her sister.

"She joined the Special Olympics Great Britain (SOGB) in 2018 to allow her to compete on an equal basis.

"Lorina trains weekly at the dry slope in Welwyn Garden City Friday night and with Ski MK Race Team at the Snozone (indoor artificial snow) in Milton Keynes early Sunday mornings.

"For a girl who has struggled to overcome her disabilities and prejudices associated with this the Special Olympics has given her the freedom to compete and make friends from all over the country.

"Her aim moving forward is to be chosen for the Great British Squad for the Special Olympics World Games to be held in February 2021."