The Price Family Surprise SOBC Athletes in Kelowna
They say you should never skip a day at the gym. And for some of our local Special Olympics athletes, that truth came alive in the most unforgettable way.
On St. Patrick’s Day, I found myself alongside athletes from Special Olympics BC (Kelowna) in their weekly fitness class at CrossFit Okanagan. The energy in the room was already high — the kind of determination, laughter, and camaraderie that makes this program so special. But then the doors opened, and in walked Carey Price, his wife Angela, and their three kids — Liv, Millie, and Lincoln.
The look on the athletes’ faces was priceless. Shock, delight, and maybe even a bit of disbelief. After all, it’s not every day you do burpees next to an NHL legend. Yet what struck me wasn’t the fame or the headlines. It was how naturally the Price family folded into the room. Carey picked up the weights and got to work. Angela encouraged the athletes with warmth and genuine interest. The kids jumped in with playful energy, adding to the joy that filled the space.
I stood there, watching these athletes I’ve come to know and admire grind out another workout — only now with a few new, very unexpected teammates by their side. There was no separation, no hierarchy. Just people moving, sweating, laughing, and celebrating each other’s effort. That’s the beauty of Special Olympics: it levels the field, reminding us that what matters most is showing up with heart.
And when the class ended, the generosity didn’t stop. Carey stayed behind, signing autographs, taking photos, and creating moments the athletes will remember forever. Meanwhile, Angela quietly made a $10,000 donation to SOBC Kelowna before they left. No fanfare, no spotlight — just a heartfelt gesture to strengthen an organization that continues to empower so many in our community.
It was one of those days that reminded me why I do this work — not because of the star power, but because of the way generosity, when experienced together, creates memories that live far beyond the moment. For the athletes, it was magic. For me, it was yet another glimpse of how giving — when it’s personal, present, and shared — can transform an ordinary day into something extraordinary.
