Local swimmer finds inclusion and inspiration in Special Olympics and Masters Swim

Local competitive swimmer Casey-Jae Kruse swam in the Master Swim in Okotoks this past weekend. 

"It was enjoyable just to compete and see what it's like; it's also a way different environment cause I'm part of Special Olympics as well, and I'm a fast swimmer and special where I get first place and at pretty much anything. So I don't have a competition, really," said Kruse. 

Kruse said that competing with masters helps with competition because people swim faster than she does. 

"I used to swim with the Strathmore Silver Sharks for the longest time as a child, and I never really felt like I completely belonged because I was always like last place, but once I joined the Special Olympics, it was a cool experience because I came first in almost anything."

Local swimmers find inclusion and inspiration in Special Olympics and Masters Swim. (Photo provided by Casey-Jae Kruse).

Swimming for a master's in the Special Olympics helped shape Kruse's perspective on diversity and inclusion in the sport. 

"With Special Olympics, I swim with athletes like me and then with the Silver Sharks. I think it's just because I'm bringing the community together, and I get to see all the people that I used to swim with. I think it's just different types of things, and I always feel included in both."

Kruse explained that the most memorable experience in her swimming career was when the COVID-19 pandemic hit and all the pools were shut down. 

"I felt like I lost my passion for swimming because I couldn't swim cause the pools were shut down. But once it came back up and I joined Special Olympics for the first time, I felt included in something."

Local swimmers find inclusion and inspiration in Special Olympics and Masters Swim. (Photo provided by Casey-Jae Kruse).

Kruse leaves a message for other young swimmers who want to excel in their passion.

"Just keep going with your dreams, and you'll always find the light at the end of the tunnel."

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