Howell brings home gold and silver in snowshoe races

Alec Howell wasn’t much into athletics until he came home from the Montana Special Olympics Winter Games with a pair of medals around his neck. Now, he’s hooked.

“He told me he wants to try the Summer Games next,” Whitefish Thunder coach Mark Kuhr said. “I think that’s great.”

Howell, 22, won a gold and silver medal in the competitive snowshoe races held on the slopes at Whitefish Mountain Resort Feb. 24-25. It was his first time competing in the Winter Games.

Howell is well known at The Wave where he is an employee. On Wednesday, the fitness center surprised him with a celebration. Wave maintenance manager Dean McFadden stood with Howell on the highest countertop in the lobby and led two cheers in front of a crowd before slicing into a cake adorned with snowshoers.

Howell is also the skills specialist for the Thunder basketball team. Look for him to compete in running and bowling in the upcoming Summer Games.