On The Snow Project

Opening the door to real-snow experiences for disabled athletes

Ski Ability NI trains on a dry slope in Lurgan — the only one in Northern Ireland.
For many of our athletes, skiing on real snow has always felt out of reach. The cost of specialist equipment, the need for highly trained adaptive coaches, and the practical support required for disabled athletes abroad make snow trips impossible for some families.

The On the Snow Project was created to change that.

This project gives our athletes the chance to ski on real snow — safely, affordably and with full support from our experienced coaching and volunteer team.

Why This Project Exists

For some families, skiing on snow is simply not possible without:

• access to specialist adaptive equipment

• expert coaches trained in disability snowsports

• volunteer chaperones for additional support

• financial assistance to make the trip achievable

• structured safeguarding and medical support abroad

And for athletes hoping to compete in Special Olympics:
they cannot enter higher-level competitions unless they have skied on real snow.

This project removes the barriers that prevent disabled athletes from progressing, competing and experiencing the transformative joy of skiing on snow.

What Makes This Project Different

This is not a holiday.

Yes — it will be life-changing.
Yes — it will be full of joy, pride and unforgettable moments.
But the purpose is development, inclusion and opportunity.

Our athletes will:

• train on snow under close supervision

• use specialist adaptive equipment

• receive personalised coaching

• build skills required for Special Olympics progression

• gain confidence, independence and resilience

Behind the scenes, coaches and volunteers provide:

• physical assistance with equipment

• emotional reassurance

• medical oversight

• safeguarding support

• one-to-one guidance where needed

Designed to introduce our athletes to an Alpine Mountain environment, build life skills, build confidence, develop those who wish to compete, learn to embrace the beauty and freedom of skiing all with the friendship of their club

The Cost of Adaptive Skiing on Snow

Adaptive skiing requires specialist, highly engineered equipment.

For example:

• A sit-ski typically costs £4,000 and upwards

• Outriggers, tethers and harness systems add additional costs

• Airlines charge extra for oversized adaptive equipment transport

• Insurance for disabled athletes participating in snowsports is significantly higher

These are barriers most families simply cannot overcome without support — which is why the On the Snow Project matters.

What Funders Help Make Possible

Your support enables:

• specialist equipment rentals and transport

• accessible accommodation

• coach and volunteer travel

• safeguarding and medical coverage

• training time on the snow

• participation for athletes who otherwise could not afford to go

Funders aren’t just contributing to a trip.
They are investing in:

✔ confidence
✔ independence
✔ personal development
✔ competitive opportunities
✔ inclusion
✔ community

They are helping create moments that change lives.

Why This Matters

For many of our athletes, skiing on real snow is more than a milestone —
it’s a moment where athletes realise their hard work, bravery and determination can take them anywhere.

Families see their children achieve things they never imagined.
Athletes feel pride, connection and freedom.
Doors open to competitions, friendships and new experiences.

The On the Snow Project is how we make those moments happen.