Elizabeth Whitehouse’s Inspiring Journey From Sammamish’s Slopes to Virtus Podium

April marks World Autism Awareness Month, and Virtus proudly joins the global celebration. This year’s theme, “Advancing Neurodiversity and the SDGs,” highlights the role of inclusivity in fostering sustainability and positive change worldwide, and we want to take this opportunity to highlight the II3 competition class and honour some of our outstanding athletes with autism who are inspiring athletes worldwide.

Research into the development of a new competition category began in 2018 when it was recognised that many athletes with autism face barriers in sports. Some may need specific adaptation and support, which is not available in mainstream sports and competitions, and so are not able to fulfil their sporting potential. And, after years of lengthy research and trial period, Virtus introduced the II3 competition class as a full medal event at the Virtus Global Games in 2023, creating a dedicated space for athletes with autism for the first time ever in the world of sports. With over 250 registered athletes, these individuals are inspiring other people with autism both nationally and internationally while supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Today, we are sharing the story of Elizabeth Whitehouse, an exceptional skier from the USA and a resident of Sammamish.

Elizabeth’s biggest supporters are her parents, her master ski team, and her extended family, emphasising the strong network that has helped her excel in her sport. Her biggest role model, however, is her mother.

“My mom is my role model because of what she has done to be where she is today and also because of what she has done to make sure I succeed in life.”

Growing up with autism meant that structure played an essential role in Elizabeth’s daily life. Elizabeth was informed beforehand if the class was going to have a substitute teacher for the day so that her routine was not thrown off. Despite these challenges, she found solace and joy in skiing.

“I chose skiing because I have fun and feel relaxed while doing it. The freedom you feel while going down the slopes is what I love most.”

Her journey into sports began in middle school, encouraged by her teachers. Over time, she has developed her skills and climbed through the ranks, competing in major international competitions. At the Virtus World Skiing Championships in Zakopane 2024, Elizabeth proudly secured three silver medals and one bronze for Team USA in the II3 category.

“In a way, we knew that I wouldn’t get gold like in 2023. My family and team knew that the other country’s athletes trained from a young age and that I would have competition. My family was excited for what I got with who I went against.”

Elizabeth also won two bronze from the women’s II3 Super G and Gaint Slalom races at the 2025 Virtus World Alpine Skiing Championship in Tignes, France recently.

Competing among other athletes with autism has been a rewarding experience for her, especially when she gets to compete against people from other countries.

She acknowledges that intellectual impairment and autism are often misunderstood.

“I do think that it is difficult for people to understand the difficulties that people with intellectual impairments or autism might have.”

Despite these challenges, Elizabeth has never let autism hold her back. Virtus competitions have played a significant role in her growth.

“Virtus competitions are giving me experience that I would never have gotten back home on the mountain that I ski on routinely. Hopefully, I can do ski FIS runs when I am old enough for the master level FIS.”

On Autism Awareness Day, Elizabeth has a message for young athletes with autism: “Do not give up because there is somebody who believes very much in you.”

Her journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and an inspiration to young children around the world.