Colquitt Co. Special Olympians bring home gold in Alpine Skiing competition at 2025 Special Olympics World Games in Italy

MOULTRIE, Ga. – For any athlete, the ultimate dream is standing atop the podium, draped in their nation’s colors, with a gold medal hanging proudly around their neck.

For most, that dream seems out of reach, especially coming from a small town like Moultrie.

“It feels pretty good,” “Feels good,” said Jayda Hughes, Jeremiah Spence, Special Olympics World Games gold medal winners.

But… these two athletes, Jeremiah Spence and Jayda Hughes, didn’t just dream it… they did it.

They defied the odds and took first place in the world in Alpine Skiing at the 2025 Special Olympics World Games in Italy, bringing home Olympic gold.

“We’re in a farming community in southern Georgia, we barely see snow. And, they go to the World Special Olympics and win snow skiing,” said Doug Hughes, Special Education Teacher.

I know what you’re thinking…

Winning gold in skiing isn’t what you expect to hear especially in South Georgia…

But… these two Colquitt County High School graduates were provided a multitude of opportunities during their high school career and after.

Both athletes credit their success to Coach Mitchell McKinney and their time at Colquitt County High School, where they trained under his guidance and continued to stay connected after graduation.

And… their hometown wanted to make sure they felt the love.

In a special ceremony, the City of Moultrie presented Jayda, Jeremiah, and Coach McKinney with Keys to the City in recognition of their dedication and hard work.

“Very humbling and a special feeling. I tell people all the time that our community here in Colquitt county is the reason our Special Olympics program is able to do what we do,” said Mitchell McKinney, Coach, Colquitt County Special Olympics.

Jayda and Jeremiah may have won gold in an individual sport, but they say their biggest strength was supporting each other every step of the way.

That bond was evident when they returned home, overcome with emotion.

“Very, very surprised and emotional. Trying so hard to cry right now. But, I’m very proud of my partner,” “I’m proud of her too,” said Hughes & Spence.

If you’re in Moultrie or anywhere watching in South Georgia, come out and celebrate these two incredible athletes!

A parade in their honor kicks off this Friday at 5 p.m. in Moultrie.

Gabe Hutton reporting.

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