Celebrating the 7 Medals of New Brunswick Para Athletes at the 2023 Para Pan American Games
Fredericton, New Brunswick - November 30th 2023 - Parasport New Brunswick is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of New Brunswick’s athletes at the recently concluded 2023 Parapan American Games in Santiago, Chile. These remarkable athletes have showcased their exceptional talent, determination, and resilience on the international stage, bringing home an impressive array of 7 medals back home.
Representing the country and New Brunswick with pride, our athletes have left an indelible mark on the world of para sports. Their achievements are a testament to their unwavering dedication, countless hours of training, and the unwavering support they receive from their families, coaches, and the entire community.
Among the standout performances, we would like to highlight the following achievements:
Jesse Canney, Fredericton, NB, Qualified for 5 Finals in Para Swimming
Jesse Canney participated in five different para swimming events at the Para Pan Am Games and qualified for all five finals. This is very impressive as this was his first major multisport game. Jesse’s disciplines were the Men’s 100m Backstroke - S14, Men’s 100m Butterfly - S14, Men’s 100m Breaststroke - SB14, Men’s 200m Freestyle - S14, Men’s 200m Individual Medley - SM14.
Alexandre Hayward, Quispamsis, NB, Four Medals in Para Cycling
Alexandre Hayward finished the Paraan Am Games with four medals in para cycling, the athlete winning the most medals from Canada. Alex won gold in the Time Trial - Men's C1-5, gold in Men’s 3000m C1-3 Individual Pursuit, silver in Road Race - Men’s C1-3 and bronze in Track 1000m Individual Time Trial - Men’s C1-5.
Colin Higgins, PLY, Rothesay, NB, Bronze Medal in Wheelchair Basketball
Colin Higgins competed very well during the games with the Men’s Wheelchair Basketball team. The team concluded with a strong performance to capture the bronze medal against Argentina. A crucial game where Colin had the second most points on the team with 21.
Desiree Isaac-Pictou, Eel River Bar, NB, Silver Medal in Wheelchair Basketball
Desiree Isaac-Pictou had a great first experience at her first major multisport games with the Women’s Wheelchair Basketball team. The team finished with a silver medal in the tournament and Desiree had some good minutes throughout the week and scored her first 9 points on the senior international stage.
Bernard Lapointe, St-Léonard, NB, Bronze Medal in Para Badminton
Bernard Lapointe competed in the sport of Para Badminton, category Men’s Singles WH2 and Men’s Doubles WH1-WH2. He finished his strong tournament in the Men’s Singles WH2 event by winning the bronze medal in two straight sets. Bernard also ranked 4th in the Men’s Doubles WH1-WH2 discipline with his doubles partner Mikhail Bilenki.
In addition to celebrating the remarkable achievements of our New Brunswick athletes at the 2023 Parapan Am Games, it is crucial to recognize the importance of grassroots parasport and promoting a healthy lifestyle and active living for individuals with disabilities. All of these athletes went through the grassroots programs. At the grassroots level, Parasport NB provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in physical activity, develop their skills, and experience the joy of participating in sports. It fosters inclusivity, empowerment, and social integration, allowing individuals to build confidence, form friendships, and develop a sense of belonging within their communities.
“I wasn’t sure what to expect but as the games went on it was exciting. To medal at every event in your first multisport game is hard to describe what it feels like and anytime you represent Canada it’s a really special thing. The support I’ve had throughout the games from Canada and especially from the East Coast was extra special. The cherry on top was to have my parents here to experience this with me. These are moments that we will never forget.” - Alexandre Hayward, Para Cycling athlete reflecting on his experience and the support he received from the parasport community while at the games.
“By providing accessible and inclusive opportunities for all participants to live an active, healthy lifestyle and nurturing talent, we can keep building a vibrant sports community in New Brunswick.” - Simon Richard, PLY, Program Manager at Parasport NB.
We extend our warmest congratulations to all the athletes who represented New Brunswick at the 2023 Parapan American Games. Your achievements have made us immensely proud, and we eagerly await your return to celebrate your success.
For media inquiries and more information, please contact:
Simon Richard
simon.richard@parasportnb.ca, (506) 588-3386
Parasport NB is a leader in providing and facilitating safe and supportive programs, reducing barriers to participation, and integrating all New Brunswickers in the broader parasport community. They are also the governing body for wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, goalball, and boccia, and a supporter of the delivery for all sports in the Paralympic movement.