Para Winter Heroes

Saskatchewan is home to many winter Paralympians and we are celebrating them and sharing their stories in our new Para Winter Heroes display.

These athletes have each overcome unique challenges in their lives to become world-class athletes. Saskatchewan’s Paralympians have also taken inspiration from one another, as many of the province’s top para athletes have become mentors and coaches.

Joe Harrison, who competed at the 1976 Paralympics (then called the 1976 Olympiad for the Physically Disabled) helped inspire Colette Bourgonje on her Paralympic journey. Bourgonje competed at 10 Paralympic Games and earned 10 medals over her career. She would go on to recruit and mentor para athlete Brittany Hudak who has now won three Paralympic medals of her own as the cycle continues. Those stories are included in this display.

Other para winter athletes featured in the display include Kurt Oatway, Curtis Minard, Marie Wright, and Lisa DeJong. In 2024, DeJong authored a children’s book titled Lucy’s Fancy Leg. The story follows Lucy, a below-the-knee amputee, who lives an active life as a snowboarder and dancer and uses her creativity to problem-solve. DeJong “hopes that kids that read this book feel inspired to persevere in whatever they might be going through. And just remember to find the humor along the way in life.”

Para Winter Heroes will be on display throughout the winter.