After winning gold in the state winter games, a woman from Morehead will be representing eastern Kentucky and Team USA in the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games. DesaRae Nickell has been a Special Olympic athlete for 14 years, beginning in the snowshoe event before finding a passion for Alpine Skiing 12 years ago.
She said while the journey has been challenging at times, it has always been something she has enjoyed.
“I started on the bunny hills, and it wasn’t fast enough, so I kept moving up every year. And I had seen one of my friends go to world games, and that’s what made me want to,” said Nickell.
Nickell will compete in technical races known as Slalom and Giant Slalom, as well as a speed skiing event called Super-G. Nickell had previously qualified to attend the Special Olympics in 2019 for alpine skiing, but due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, she was unfortunately unable to attend. She said she hopes her time in Italy for the 2025 competition will make up for the disappointment.
In addition to being an athlete, Nickell won the Kentucky Miss Amazing pageant title in 2023 and 2024. But she said skiing has always been something special to her.
“I love that it’s different. And getting to go fast through the gates and make the best time for myself and work on being my own self, and the times,” said Nickell.
Nickell has a disorder called 3p deletion syndrome, a rare condition that causes intellectual disability and developmental delay. She said while it was tough growing up different, the experiences she’s had have made it easier for her to get through difficult times.
She attributed her success to her mentors and mom, who have helped support and empower her.
The 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games are scheduled to take place March 8-15 in Turin, Italy.
This week, Morehead Mayor Laura White-Brown and Rowan County Judge Executive Harry Clark signed a proclamation declaring Tuesday, March 4, 2025, DesaRae Nickell Day.