The second-fastest female speed skater in Calgary, Kim Pothier struck gold in the 333M race and picked up silvers in the 500M, 777M and 1000M races.

“I had a fantastic experience at the Nationals,” she said. From skating out onto the Olympic Oval, to getting instruction from members of Team Canada, to stumbling in the 500M preliminary race — only to regain her stride and end with a personal best, her experience was unforgettable. 

Ms. Pothier, 25, trains with the Quinte Blades Speed Skating Club. Her success at the 2024 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games is thanks to her dedication — and a timely investment by the County Foundation and Prince Edward Learning Centre in 2019.

Ms. Pothier recalls back to 2015 having to choose between hockey and her need for speed.

“I liked the speed of speed skating and chose that as a sport.” 

There was only one problem. The cost of authentic speed skates was through the roof. 

The County Foundation’s Youth Learning and Engagement Fund ensured the future star was not left on the sidelines. The fund was designed to help Prince Edward County young people participating in educational, arts, cultural, sport, and civic activities overcome barriers, realize personal development and achieve their potential.

Prince Edward Learning Centre is a partner agency. It helps refer many young people to the fund. Over $24,000 has been distributed to local young people aged 12-29 for items such as computers, sports equipment, programming costs, transportation, and subsidies.  

Last week, she stopped by PELC to show off some of her new hardware.

“We’re so proud of Kim and what she’s accomplished on the national stage,” said PELC’s Lori Farrington.