Hanover is recognizing an outstanding young citizen.
Not only did 13 year old Marissa Schnurr return home victorious from the recent Special Olympics Winter Games in Thunder Bay.with four gold medals – she has also won the admiration of her hometown.
Mayor Kathi Maskell says the young speed skater has left her mark on Hanover
Marissa won gold in every speed skating race she competed in, including the 1000, the 7-7-7, the 500, and the 3-3-3 meter raceS.
Maskell says Marissa has served Hanover well by representing the town in such a positive manner.
Marissa’s parents John and Sherri Schnurr agree.
They say their daughter is a dedicated athlete that trains very hard and takes her sport quite seriously.
With four gold medals in hand, Marissa is not about to rest on her laurels now.
She will continue to train in the hopes of making Team Ontario this year so she can compete in the 2012 Alberta Games.
Marissa’s mom Sherri says participating in the Special Olympics was a momentous experience for her daughter.
She says the athletes all exemplified the true meaning of sportsmanship.
Marissa adds that most importantly the experience was a lot of fun.
She jests that while her short term goal is the 2012 Alberta Games, her long term goal is to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
