For Ida Chiodi, gymnastics isn’t just a sport, it’s a family passion. Ida is an accomplished Special Olympics Minnesota gymnast, and her older brother, Solen, is on the men's gymnastics team at the University of Michigan. Together, Ida and Solen motivate, coach, and encourage one another. According to her mom, Kristin, Ida loves following in Solen's footsteps. “They both find so much joy in watching each other chase their dreams and goals!"
This weekend, Ida is one of 240 nominated delegation members attending Team Trials in Pittsburgh, PA, hoping to represent the USA at the 2027 Special Olympics World Games in Santiago, Chile. Ida's brother and sister have helped her prepare for Team Trials, reminding her to try her hardest, do her best, and have fun, even through the nerves. Ida's mantra has become, "I am nervous, but I am brave."
Ida looks up to her brother in many ways. "My brother is amazing and funny. He taught me to be brave and be tough." And the feeling is mutual. In an interview with Champ Media, Solen said, "She's honestly an inspiration to me. She always encourages me and gives me pre-competition pep talks. Seeing how passionate she is about the sport keeps me going."
As Ida sets her sights on the global stage, her family cheers her on every step of the way. Their message to her is this: "You have worked so hard and grown so much, not just as a gymnast, but as a teammate. We are so proud of you! We love you with all our hearts! Go shine your light!"