Multi-sports talent balances training for the Special Olympics World Winter Games with driving lessons.
Ugo Valentini’s journey as an athlete has been shaped by his love for a variety of sports. From swimming and climbing to horseback riding and rafting, his enthusiasm for trying new activities has broadened his skills and enriched his life.
“Sport is fundamental for me. I’ve tried a lot of them, even football and table tennis with my dad. I grew up with sports and they have always made me feel great, a lot of emotions, and it’s nice to share experiences with friends.”
Tennis, in particular, remains a significant passion for Ugo. But the 32-year-old has now shifted his focus into snowboarding as he gears up to represent Italy at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025. This is the first World Winter Games ever to take place in Ugo’s home country. It will be the world’s largest sports and humanitarian event of 2025 with over 1,500 athletes representing more than 100 countries gathering to compete.
Ugo’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 winter athletes representing their countries at the World Winter Games Turin 2025.
From Skis to Snowboards: A New Challenge
Ugo’s introduction to snowboarding came through a chance encounter with friends who invited him to try the sport. “I had already been skiing, but snowboarding gave me a different feeling,” he recalled. With lessons from a skilled instructor and support from the SportAbili Association, Ugo quickly developed his technique and discovered a deeper connection to the board.
In preparation for Turin 2025, Ugo trains weekly on the slopes of Castelir di Bellamonte, perfecting his turns and mastering slalom courses under the guidance of experienced coaches. “I am looking forward to the experience. Now that the snow has arrived, each Monday I go snowboarding for two hours with the instructor,” said Ugo, who every morning works at a restaurant called ‘Hotel Crepes de Sela’ in his hometown of Campestrin Mazzin.
His past successes, including numerous medals in national competitions, fuel his determination to perform at his best on the global stage.
“I am motivated because I have participated in many national games, collecting medal after medal, almost all gold.”
Balancing Training with Driving Lessons
Ugo’s pursuit of independence extends beyond the slopes and courts as he works hard to pass his driving theory test. Twice a week, he attends driving school lessons and practices quizzes at home, determined to achieve his goal.
“The quizzes are a bit difficult,” he admitted. “I still make eight mistakes, but I’m improving. Slowly, I’ll manage.”
For Ugo, having a car would mean more than just convenience—it would open up opportunities to connect with friends, attend training sessions, and travel to competitions with greater ease. “It’s nice living in the mountains, but with a car, I could move around more freely,” he said.
“I’d like to go to the Special Olympics World Games with my car one day. Maybe with a nice red and white Panda Cross, which is my favourite car.”
“However, if they told me to choose between my driving license or a gold medal, I’d choose the medal.”
Turin 2025 and Beyond
His versatility as an athlete is matched by his selflessness off the field. Through SportAbili, Ugo helps other people with disabilities, lending a hand during trips and events. “I’m happy when I can make myself useful,” he said. “Thanks to my team and to Special Olympics, fortunately opportunities to socialise do come up. And I don’t let them get away.”
“Sport brings people together, and I’ve built so many friendships through it.”
The snowboard competition will take place between 11 and 15 March at the Melezet Area Slopes 23 in Bardonecchia, 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, snowboard, snowshoeing.
