A Service of The Arrow           Monday March 27, 2000 8:56 PM

By: Amber Arvidson

ARROW STAFF

Carving an Alaskan slope overlooking the ocean sounds like a dream to any skier. But it will be a dream come true for Gail Andersen, who in March will be hitting the slopes in Anchorage for the Special Olympics Preworld Games.

"They like to test out the sites before the World Games and they chose two people from each state," said teacher Sue Corrigan.

People are selected to attend the games through an application process. Two alpine skiers are chosen to compete from each state.

"She’s one of the kids you’re glad was chosen, because she’s a great person," said Corrigan. "She’s very likable, has a lot of friends and is willing to help out with anything, so everyone has been pitching in to help her out — giving her mittens and hats and ski pants."

Andersen has not only been getting help from others, but she has been working in the cafeteria to earn spending money for her five-day trek to Alaska. She is also preparing for the trip in other ways.

"She’s been looking on the internet at pictures of where she’s going," said Corrigan. "She’s just in awe of the place. It looks over the ocean."

Andersen is a team member of Special Olympics Montana and goes up to the Big Mountain every Wednesday with the All-Star program. Although she enjoys skiing it’s not the only sport Andersen enjoys.

"Gayle really likes sports," said Special Olympics coordinator Patty Wagoner. "She also competes in basketball, cycling, and softball."

But sports have never taken Andersen this far.

"This is a very big thing for Gayle," said Wagoner. "She’s really excited."

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