Doug Claus has never been to Kosovo, but as Delegation Assistant Liaison (DAL) volunteer for the country, he has been an integral part of the operation for the group during and has become family during their time at the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin. The Special Olympics Games mean the world to him, his sister participated in the Special Olympics Summer Games in Brockport, NY, in 1979, just 20 miles from his hometown of Rochester. Now 46 years later, Doug has helped make the time in Italy run smoothly for Head of Delegation, Kimete Bekaj, Head Coach Flamur Rrahmani, and the two athletes representing the country, Albin Brahimi and Ema Kabashi.
“He has made this Special Olympics experience easier for us and we are very lucky to have him,” said Flamur. “We know our schedules and where to be and we owe a percentage of our success here to Doug.”
Success has come in the form of a gold medal for Albin in the novice giant slalom final. Albin and Ema are quick learners who have only been skiing for two years. After winning the gold, Albin got on the phone immediately to share the news with his cousin, Albert, back in Kosovo. After hearing the great news, Albert promised to ski with Albin to help him continue his mission of being the best skier he can be when he goes back home. Winning gold has given Albin the confidence to be able to compete with anyone, with or without disabilities.
Ema has enjoyed competing in alpine skiing, making new friends from other countries and being a part of the inclusivity of the Games. “It has been nice to be included, and to compete with athletes from around the world,” said Ema. I made a new friend who is competing from Albania, and we talk on the phone all the time.”
For Doug, getting to know and help the Kosovo delegation in Italy has been a dream come true. “I have become wonderful friends with Emma and Albin,” said Doug. “Ema speaks good English, so it’s easy for us to communicate, while Albin and I fist bump and high five each other. Both have done a great job, and it feels like I have known them forever.”
Doug, who now lives in Germany has a standing invitation to visit Kosovo from Kimete and Flamur, and through the Special Olympics he has created a lifelong bond that will be forever cherished.
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