What does it take to turn adversity into triumph? For Canada’s Paralympic athletes, the answer lies in unwavering resilience, boundless determination, and a spirit that limitations do not define. As the Paris 2024 Paralympics draw near, our nation is not just sending a team—we’re sending a movement. From the sprawling landscapes of Alberta, which proudly contributes 14.4% of our athletes, to the vibrant cities across the country, these extraordinary competitors are set to inspire the world. They carry the hopes, dreams, and pride of a nation united by their incredible journeys. Join us to learn about the Paris 2024 Paralympics, from a list of sports, athletes, competition schedule & so much more.
- About Paris 2024 Paralympic Games and Dates
- Schedule
- List of Paris 2024 Paralympics Sports
- List of Albertan Athletes
- List of Canadian Athletes
- FAQs
About Paris 2024 Paralympics
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, running from August 28 to September 8, are set to be nothing short of spectacular. With 4,400 athletes ready to showcase their prowess in 22 sports, these games will unfold in some of the most iconic venues Paris offers—think the Eiffel Tower, Chateau de Versailles, and the Grand Palais. But it doesn’t stop there.
For the first time, the Opening Ceremony will break free from the confines of a stadium. Picture this: athletes parading down the Champs-Elysées, cheered on by 65,000 spectators as they make their way to Place de la Concorde—a true testament to Paris’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. And speaking of iconic, the medals carry a piece of Parisian history, featuring iron from the Eiffel Tower, and are designed to be distinguished by touch.
With the Phryge mascot symbolizing freedom and the Paralympic Torch embodying equality and peace, the Paris 2024 Paralympics are not just games—they’re a celebration of what sport, unity, and perseverance can achieve on a global stage.
Paralympics 2024 Schedule – Albertan Players
| Discipline | 28 Aug | 29 Aug | 30 Aug | 31 Aug | 01 Sep | 02 Sep | 03 Sep | 04 Sep | 05 Sep | 06 Sep | 07 Sep | 08 Sep |
| Ceremonies | AB | |||||||||||
| Goalball | AB | AB | ||||||||||
| Para Athletics | AB | |||||||||||
| Para-Cycling Road | AB | |||||||||||
| Para-Equestrian | N/A | |||||||||||
| Para Swimming | AB | AB | AB | AB | AB | |||||||
| Para Triathlon | AB | |||||||||||
| Sitting Volleyball | AB | AB | AB | |||||||||
| Wheelchair Basketball | AB | AB | ||||||||||
| Wheelchair Rugby | AB | AB | AB | |||||||||
| Para-Alpine Skiing | N/A |
List of Paris 2024 Paralympics Sports and Gender Representation from Alberta
Alberta’s representation at the Paralympics is not just broad in geography but also rich in diversity across various sports disciplines. Our team comprises 38.9% male and 61.1% female athletes, reflecting the country’s commitment to gender equality in sports. The following table breaks down the number of male and female athletes by sport:
| Type of Sports | Female | Male | Total |
| Goalball | 2 | 0 | 2 |
| Para Athletics | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Para-Cycling Road | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Para Swimming | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Para Triathlon | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Sitting Volleyball | 5 | 0 | 5 |
| Wheelchair Basketball | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Wheelchair Rugby | 0 | 1 | 1 |
Spotlight on Albertan Athletes
Alberta has always been a powerhouse in contributing to Canada’s Paralympic teams, and 2024 is no exception. Here are some of the inspiring athletes from Alberta who will be representing Canada:
| Name | City | Gender | Sport / Discipline | Age |
| Brieann Tracy Kelly Baldock | Edmonton, Alberta | Female | Goalball | 28 |
| Stefan Daniel | Calgary, Alberta | Male | Paratriathlon | 27 |
| Reed DeAeth | Sherwood Park, Alberta | Male | Wheelchair Basketball | 22 |
| Angelena Dolezar | St. Albert, Alberta | Female | Sitting Volleyball | 39 |
| Chad Jassman | Calgary, Alberta | Male | Wheelchair Basketball | 40 |
| Zachary (Zak) Madell | Okotoks, Alberta | Male | Wheelchair Rugby | 30 |
| Meghan Mahon | Calgary, Alberta | Female | Goalball | 28 |
| Reid Maxwell | St. Albert, Alberta | Male | Para Swimming | 16 |
| Sarah Melenka | Vegreville, Alberta | Female | Sitting Volleyball | 25 |
| Kate OBrien | Calgary, Alberta | Female | Para Cycling | 36 |
| Jennifer Gerilyn Oakes | Calgary, Alberta | Female | Sitting Volleyball | 26 |
| Heidi Peters | Edmonton, Alberta | Female | Sitting Volleyball | 29 |
| Amanda Rummery | Edmonton, Alberta | Female | Para Athletics (Track) | 27 |
| Michael Sametz | Calgary, Alberta | Male | Para Cycling | 27 |
| Noah Vucsics | Calgary, Alberta | Male | Para Swimming | 20 |
| Arinn Young | St.Albert, Alberta | Female | Wheelchair Basketball | 28 |
| Jolan Wong | Calgary, Alberta | Female | Sitting Volleyball | 31 |
| Patrick Anderson | Edmonton, Alberta | Male | Wheelchair Basketball | 45 |
List of Other Canadian Athletes
Apart from the Albertan athletes, many other Canadian athletes from provinces such as Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador will be participating in the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Ontario has the highest participation, accounting for 32% of the Canadian athletes.
FAQs
1. What can we expect from the Paralympics 2024 Opening Ceremony?
The Paralympics 2024 Opening Ceremony is set to be a groundbreaking event. The ceremony will take place outside a traditional stadium for the first time in Paralympic history. Instead, athletes will parade through the iconic Avenue des Champs-Elysées, concluding at Place de la Concorde. With an expected 65,000 spectators, this event will highlight Paris’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, setting the tone for an inspiring Games.
2. How can I get tickets for the Paralympics 2024?
Tickets for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be available through the official Paris 2024 Paralympics website. The process typically includes a registration period for a ticket lottery, followed by a general sale. It’s recommended to keep an eye on official announcements to ensure you don’t miss out on purchasing tickets to witness this historic event in person.
3. How do athletes qualify for the Paris 2024 Paralympics?
Qualification for the Paris 2024 Paralympics varies by sport but generally involves athletes competing in international competitions, rankings, and qualification events leading up to the Games. Each sport has its specific criteria, and athletes must meet the standards set by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and their respective sports federations to secure their place in Paris.
4. What are the key highlights of Paralympics 2024 athletics?
Athletics at the Paralympics 2024 will be one of the most anticipated events, featuring a wide range of track and field disciplines. Athletes will compete in iconic Parisian venues, showcasing their incredible speed, strength, and endurance. Expect to see world records challenged and the emergence of new heroes as they push the limits of human potential.
5. Which sports will be featured in the Paralympics 2024?
The Paralympics 2024 will feature 22 sports, including traditional events like athletics, swimming, and wheelchair basketball,
As the Paris 2024 Paralympics approach, Albertans can take immense pride in the athletes representing our nation. Their journey to Paris has been one of hard work and dedication, and they have overcome challenges that many of us can only imagine. With every race, every match, and every goal, they will carry the hopes and dreams of a nation that values diversity, inclusion, and excellence. Let’s cheer them on as they compete, knowing their legacy will inspire future Canadians to reach for greatness regardless of the outcome.
For more information and updates about Paralympics 2024, stay tuned to Y!Alberta.
