Spanish alpine skier preparing to take to the slopes for a sixth World Winter Games
For Special Olympics Spain’s Javier Trejo, alpine skiing is all about speed. “I loved watching it on TV, how fast they went, and I wanted to be like them,” he said with a smile.
Now, as he prepares to compete at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, his lifelong passion for the slopes is stronger than ever. Trejo, who is from Madrid, thrives in the thrill of racing down the mountain, a feeling he describes simply: “I’m very happy when I ski, and I love doing it with friends.”
Javier’s story is part of the ‘Celebrate the Exceptional’ campaign, supported by Toyota Motor Europe and UPS, a visual and narrative project designed to spotlight eight exceptional Special Olympics athletes representing their countries at the World Winter Games Turin 2025.
More Than a Skier: An All-Round Athlete
Javier’s journey in the sport began at the age of 13 when his aunts gifted him his first pair of skis. Seeing his enthusiasm, his family enrolled him in Club La Amistad in Madrid, where he was embraced as just any other skier.
Week after week, his skills improved, and soon, he was not only skiing for fun but competing at the international level. His father Ángel recalled a pivotal moment in Javier’s career: “In 1997, he won a silver and a bronze medal at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Toronto, Canada. Those medals gave him confidence, both in skiing and in life, showing him that with effort, he could achieve his goals.”
While alpine skiing is his favorite, Javier is an all-around athlete. Over the years, he has competed in athletics, swimming, and even earned a black belt in karate. His impressive achievements include a silver medal in swimming at the World Games Abu Dhabi 2019. Five years ago, he took up surfing, embracing the challenge of mastering yet another sport. “Javier lives for sports,” says his father. “He takes them very seriously and is incredibly competitive.”
His coach Javier Nacho Martín highlights his dedication and discipline as key strengths.
“Javier started skiing at a young age in an inclusive environment, which allowed him to grow into the skier he is today. Every year, he looks forward to the snow season with great excitement.” Despite Madrid’s short winters, he makes the most of every opportunity, spending weekends training in the mountains.
As Turin 2025 approaches, Javier has just one wish: “I always hope for the same thing—for him to enjoy it. Special Olympics events are about sharing, meeting new people, and celebrating the sport. I want him to give his best and feel proud of the experience.”
The Transformative Power of Sports
Javier’s story is a testament to the impact of sports beyond competition. His father has witnessed firsthand how they have shaped his son’s character. “It has helped him develop respect for his teammates, a peaceful spirit, and a deep desire to help others. It has made him into the person we are so proud of today.”
He encourages other families with children who have intellectual disabilities to explore sports, particularly through Special Olympics. “It’s the best discipline for them—it teaches teamwork, respect, social inclusion, and, most importantly, personal growth.”
With six Winter World Games already under his belt and a career spanning decades, Javier will once again showcase his speed, skill, and unwavering passion for alpine skiing in Turin.
Whether or not he brings home another medal, one thing is certain—he will be racing down the slopes, feeling the wind on his face, and doing what he loves most.
The alpine skiing competition will take place between 9 and 15 March in Sestriere, Italy.
The Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 will be held in Italy from 8 – 15 March, with over 1,500 athletes from more than 100 countries competing across eight sports: alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, DanceSport, figure skating, floorball, short track speed skating, snowboarding, snowshoeing.
