March 8/10 13:26 pm - Para-cyclist Participates in Paralympic Torch Relay

Posted by Editoress on 03/8/10
 

On Day 2 of the Paralympic Torch Relay, last Thursday (March 4th) in Quebec City, trike rider Shelley Gauthier was given a once in a lifetime experience as a torch bearer in the Paralympic Torch Relay.

A few years ago, Gauthier suffered a head injury while riding her mountain bike and, at the time, she had aspired to join the Olympic movement as a physiotherapist.  She is now training towards becoming the first Canadian female tricycle rider to compete at a Paralympic Games. (Note: Para-trike cyclist Paul Jalbert participated at the 2004 Paralympic Games.).

“Excitement has been within me since I found out that I was a torch bearer. Being in the Paralympic torch relay shows that I have a goal of being part of Paralympics in my home country. By doing my part, I hope to help make it a great experience for everyone,” commented Gauthier.

“Being a Paralympic torch bearer is a dream come true,”concluded Gauthier.

On March 11th and 12th, Brian Cowie, Brayden McDougall and his father will have the same privilege as the torch finishes its journey in Vancouver, BC.

Courtesy CCA