Matt Krippel of Columbia left Wednesday for the opportunity of a lifetime, participating as a member of Team USA in the Special Olympics World Winter Games in South Korea. 

You may recognize Krippel from his employment at Market Place in Columbia, where he has worked since 1991, or helping on the sidelines of a Columbia High School football game. He also assists the Columbia Volunteer Fire Department. Krippel received a plaque recently for being named CVFD 2012 Honorary Fireman.

In addition to all of this, Krippel is an avid skier. So much so, he has advanced to the Special Olympics World Winter Games for alpine skiiing. A total of 152 athletes are members of Team USA.

Opening ceremonies for the 10th World Winter Games begin Jan. 30 in South Korea, with competitions taking place Jan. 30 to Feb. 5. In all, more than 2,300 athletes representing 110 nations will participate.