Team Ireland Head Coach Jill Coulter-Slone has reflected on an "unforgettable" Special Olympics World Winter Games after Ski Ability NI athletes scaled some remarkable heights. The Northern Ireland athletes will return home on Sunday after celebrating a historic success at the 12th Games in Turin, Italy. They excelled against some of the best Special Olympics skiers from across the world. Lucy Best and Caolan McConville delivered outstanding performances, each securing gold medals in the Giant Slalom and Super-G events. Best, who hails from Ballinderry, also claimed a bronze medal in the Slalom, while McConville finished a very close fifth in the same event, battling through less-than-perfect conditions due to thick fog. Aghaghallon native McConville made history as Team Ireland’s first-ever advanced skier, stepping up to the top level of competition. His achievement is even more remarkable given that he had only raced once before in the Super-G, making his gold medal in the event a testament to his skill and determination. Coulter-Slone said: “This has been an unforgettable Games for Ski Ability NI. To see our athletes stand on top of the podium at a global event is a testament to their hard work and the commitment of our coaches. “Training on a dry slope presents unique challenges, but Lucy and Caolan have shown that dedication and the right support can lead to world-class results.” The victories mark a defining moment for both skiers, who train year-round on the dry slope at Craigavon Golf & Ski Centre under the guidance of a dedicated coaching team. Coulter-Slone, Glyn Williamson, and Jane McDowell were not only Ski Ability NI coaches but also served as Team Ireland’s official ski coaches at the Games. Their expertise has played a crucial role in Best and McConville's success, demonstrating the impact of high-quality coaching in adaptive snowsports. Ski Ability NI added: "The Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 brought together over 1,500 athletes from 102 countries, showcasing the talent, determination, and resilience of skiers with intellectual disabilities. Competing in such a prestigious international event is an achievement in itself, and Lucy and Caolan’s triumphs highlight the strength of Ski Ability NI’s programme and the incredible support within our ski family." Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox