Celebrating Captain Shannon Westlake's Olympic Debut

July 8, 2024 - Defence Stories

We are overjoyed to share the incredible news that one of our own, Captain Shannon Westlake, an officer with the Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service (COATS) will be proudly representing Team Canada at the upcoming Paris Olympic Games this summer! Capt Westlake will be an integral part of Canada's shooting team, competing in the women's 50m rifle three positions event.

This momentous achievement comes as no surprise after Capt Westlake's stellar performance at the Santiago 2023 Pan Am Games, where she clinched the bronze medal in the women’s 50m rifle three positions. Not only did she bring honour to our nation, but she also secured an Olympic quota spot for Canada, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication.

Although Paris 2024 marks Capt Westlake's first Olympic Games, she is no stranger to the competitive arena. With three Pan Am Games, including her debut at Toronto 2015, under her belt, Capt Westlake brings a wealth of experience and unwavering determination to the Olympic stage.

Her journey, which began in the 2799 Queen's York Rangers Army Cadet Corps in Aurora, Ontario, has been nothing short of inspirational. As a cadet, Capt Westlake participated in the Cadet National Rifle Team (NRT) in Bisley twice and competed in the Cadet National Marksmanship Competitions six times, laying the foundation for her remarkable career.

In addition to her impressive athletic achievements, Capt Westlake holds degrees in Health Administration, Education, and a Master of Education, highlighting her academic prowess and versatility. Currently working with Shared Services Canada, she previously served as the J6 at the Regional Cadet Support Unit Central, embodying the values of leadership and service in every endeavor.

Marksmanship is truly a family affair for the Westlakes, with Capt Westlake's husband, Major Peter Westlake, also competing and coaching in many international level competitions, representing Canada in the World’s Long Range Shooting Championships. Their son William has recently begun his journey into the world of marksmanship, further cementing the family's legacy of passion and dedication.

As Capt Westlake prepares to embark on this historic journey, let us rally behind her with unwavering support and pride. We wish her the best of luck as she aims for Olympic glory and proudly represents our country on the world stage. Go, Shannon, go!

What is COATS?

Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service or COATS is a sub-component of the Reserve Force which consists of CAF members who have undertaken as their primary duty the supervision, administration and training of cadets or Junior Canadian Rangers.