Ottawa, Ontario 16 March 2014
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement congratulating the Canadian Winter Paralympic Team on their stellar performance at the 2014 Paralympic Winter Games:
“I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to our Canadian athletes, coaches and support staff for their incredible accomplishments at this year’s Paralympic Winter Games.
“During these Games, our athletes earned a number of remarkable achievements, taking home 7 gold medals, 2 silver medals and 7 bronze medals.
“Some of the highlights included Mac Marcoux, the youngest member of the Canadian Paralympic team, and his guide Robin Fémy, who together took home a gold medal and two bronze medals in para-alpine skiing events, and Mark Arendz, who with his silver and bronze medals, became the first Canadian athlete to win a Paralympic silver medal in biathlon.
“Canadians congratulate the impressive performances by cross-country skier Brian McKeever. Together with his guides Erik Carleton and Graham Nishikawa, Mr. McKeever won three gold medals during these Games, making him the first Canadian Winter Paralympian to win 10 Paralympic gold medals during his career.
“We will all remember our wheelchair curling team’s gold medal victory as well, as they successfully defended Canada’s Paralympic title, held since the sport was introduced at the Paralympic Games in 2006.
“The commitment, dedication and sportsmanship shown by our athletes throughout the Games are an inspiration to all Canadians.
“I would also like to thank the many sports clubs, associations, teams and volunteers here at home who have created a network in Canada that yields so many world-class athletes. Our Government will continue to support your important work.”
The 2014 Paralympic Winter Games were held from March 7 to 16. Canada was represented by 54 athletes, including five guides, who competed in the following winter sport disciplines: sledge hockey, wheelchair curling, para-nordic skiing, para-alpine skiing, biathlon and para-snowboard. Approximately 575 athletes from 45 countries participated in these Paralympic Games.
