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Athletes

Xu Xiujuan: The Extraordinary Story Behind a Radiant Smile

Young woman ice skating

Xu Xiujuan has an extraordinary story to share. Those who meet her are often captivated by her bright eyes and cheerful demeanor, even though her life has been filled with challenges and marked by perseverance.

From a young age, Xu Xiujuan showed a passion for sports. While attending a special education school in Tainan, Chinese Taipei, she discovered roller skating and was drawn in by the thrill of speed and the sense of freedom it offered. Through constant practice and competition, she gradually began to shine, gaining recognition in skating events both domestically and internationally.

At the age of 10, she won her first gold medal at a Special Olympics skating competition. In 2007, she represented Chinese Taipei at the Special Olympics Summer Games in Shanghai, where she clinched gold in the 300-meter speed skating event.

But there have been difficulties along the way. Her family faces financial challenges, with her father working odd jobs to make ends meet, while her mother and younger siblings also have disabilities. To support her family, Xu Xiujuan began working at a gas station three years ago, often earning more than her father and becoming the primary financial support for her household.

In 2017, Xu Xiujuan was excited to be chosen for the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Austria. But just before the competition, she suffered injuries from a car accident that nearly prevented her from competing. However, through sheer determination, she made a swift recovery and successfully participated. In the 333-meter speed skating event, she delivered an outstanding performance to win gold, and she also earned a silver medal in the 777-meter event, showcasing her indomitable spirit.

Upon returning to school, she received a warm welcome from her peers and teachers, and even met Tsai Ing-wen. For Xu Xiujuan, skating is not just about honor; it is her passion and dream. She has expressed her commitment to continue practicing and preparing for future competitions, eagerly anticipating her participation in the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025 in figure skating, where she hopes to achieve excellent results.

Xu Xiujuan has a gentle personality and is friendly toward everyone, making her an exemplary student who excels both academically and in behavior. Her passion for skating remains steadfast; whether on roller skates or ice skates, she continually challenges herself and strives for improvement. Regardless of whether her future lies in sports or the workplace, Xu Xiujuan will continue to shine, writing an even more remarkable chapter in her life story.

Ice skaters holding up a banner in an ice skating rink.

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