Documentary Film maker and District of Clearwater Councillor Ken Matheson is moved beyond words at the close of the Special Olympics in Berlin Germany. Matheson travelled to Berlin to film 27-year-old Ryan Kealey from Clearwater during the power-lifting events throughout the games. Matheson will be using all the film obtained for his upcoming documentary called ‘Beyond the Weights’, a personal journey of Ryan’s life and the challenges he’s faced along the way.
“We have something to learn from these athletes and it’s been a surreal experience. It’s changed me. There were 79 countries attending the Special Olympics in Berlin Germany and everywhere you look, throughout the whole experience here it’s been so inspiring. No anger, hate or negativity, nothing but camaraderie, hugs, handshakes and constant conversations. An accepting and inclusive experience that has been so rewarding to be part of. What an experience.”
Ryan did what he was determined to do from the start, he did his best and stayed focused and determined. Kealey won 3 Silver Medals and his Gold Medal was in the bench press. He was the last competition in that category and when he performed his final lift the stadium was filled with cheers and tears as his mother, aunt and uncle watched from the grandstands along with the Canadian film crew lead by Matheson. Kealey’s cheering section were decked out in specially made red t-shirts with his photo enlarged on them, no mistaking who they were rooting for according to Matheson.
“I have some very deep thoughts about the games and the world in general having attended the 2023 Special Olympics. There is hope for our world if only we could learn life skills from these athletes. It would be a better, kinder and more compassionate world for sure.”
Team Kealey dressed in the photographic red t-shirts attracted attention from both TSN and ESPN as they broadcast internationally during the games with members of the film crew “busting a move” dancing in the stands in support of Kealey. Messages started to arrive from around the world according to Matheson in support of Ryan.
“I’m looking forward to spending more time in Clearwater with Ryan as we complete the full rounded documentary about this positive, focused and dedicated young man’s life journey,” said Matheson.
The main message he wants to convey is the immense pride shared by everyone who knows Kealey and supported him on this journey, “It was such a beautiful experience and we couldn’t be more proud of this wonderful Canadian athlete representing his country by doing his very best.”
