It was a full crowd and a hero’s welcome as young Revelstoke alpine skier, Yorke Parkin, returned from the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games on Sunday (March 3) evening with three gold medals.
“He just- he- I’ve never seen him ski so fast,” said Bex Parkin, Yorke’s mom.
Yorke departed for Calgary to take part in the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games on Feb. 26. Before hitting the highway that morning, a small crowd gathered at a local truck stop to wish the skier luck as he headed out for the games. Then on March 3, donning three fresh gold medals, Yorke returned from Calgary triumphant to an even bigger crowd.
With Revelstoke Fire and Rescue, Revelstoke Search and Rescue, paramedics, the entire Revelstoke Grizzlies hockey team, and crew of his devoted friends, family and supporters, the truck stop was bright and loud as Yorke pulled in.
The group cheered as Yorke jumped out of his family’s vehicle with the trio of medals clanging around his neck.
Just 15 years old, Bex explained that Yorke dominated the top division of his competition, earning him the top spot in all three races.
“He’s currently the fastest Special Olympic ski racer in Canada,” said Bex.
Yorke’s win puts him in a prime spot to be considered for Canada’s Special Olympic ski racing team. If selected, Yorke could travel to Italy for the Special Olympics next year.
Bex thanked the Revelstoke Ski Club for their commitment to Yorke’s training.
“The club has been a huge support for him,” she said.
READ MORE: Young Revelstokian heads to Special Olympics Canada Winter Games