Former Para alpine skier Mac Marcoux has been appointed as the honorary captain of Canada’s Paralympic team for the upcoming Milan-Cortina Games, as announced by the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) on Wednesday. Alongside Marcoux, five competing athletes have been selected to serve as co-captains, including wheelchair curler Ina Forrest, hockey player Tyler McGregor, nordic skier Brittany Hudak, snowboarder Tyler Turner, and alpine skier Alexis Guimond. They will act as leaders and representatives of the Canadian Paralympic Team, sharing their teammates’ stories and engaging with fans and supporters.
In a departure from traditional roles, the appointment of these athlete leaders reflects a new initiative that acknowledges the pivotal role athletes play at the Games. Catherine Gosselin-Despres, Chief Sport Officer of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, highlighted the valuable leadership qualities of these experienced Paralympians, emphasizing Marcoux’s exceptional leadership both during his competitive career and in the present day.
Marcoux, a six-time Paralympic medallist from Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., who retired in February 2024, expressed his enthusiasm for his role as honorary captain, emphasizing his desire to support his team and share their stories with a wider audience. The co-captains, with a total of 13 Paralympic medals among them, are set to lead Team Canada with pride and unity at the upcoming Games.
Among the co-captains is Ina Forrest, a decorated wheelchair curler gearing up for her fifth Paralympic appearance. Forrest, a key figure in Canadian curling, expressed her excitement for the team dynamic and unity that the co-captain initiative aims to foster. McGregor, the Para hockey team captain, shared his pride in representing Team Canada alongside a remarkable group of athletes, embodying the values of excellence and unity.
Guimond, Hudak, and Turner, each accomplished athletes in their respective disciplines, expressed their gratitude for being named co-captains and highlighted the responsibility that comes with this honor. The upcoming Milan-Cortina Paralympics, scheduled from March 6-15, will showcase a range of winter sports, including alpine skiing, hockey, snowboarding, wheelchair curling, and nordic skiing. The Canadian athletes set to compete will be announced in the coming months, building anticipation for their performances on the global stage.
