admin What appeared to be a bounce back for Canada at the Paralympic Games was more of a return to form.
Canada’s 10 gold medals in Paris were the highest tally since the 19 won in Beijing in 2008, and also doubled the number won at the Tokyo Games three years ago.
The 29 medals overall matched the total from Rio in 2016 and significantly surpassed the 21 won in Tokyo.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a greater impact on para sport compared to able-bodied sport, with both international and domestic competitions severely affected.
Canada’s stringent pandemic restrictions presented an additional challenge for Tokyo hopefuls, on top of the adjustments they had to make to continue their sporting pursuits.
Canadian athletes demonstrated their capabilities in Paris with more favourable preparation.
“I would say it’s a bit of a bounce forward,” Canadian Paralympic Committee Chief Executive Officer Karen O’Neill said on Sunday.
“This really is a crossroads for Canada because we aimed to halt the decline in our performance, particularly in summer sports, which has been evident over the past few quadrennials.
“COVID was challenging for both our Olympians and Paralympians, but it was particularly hard on our Paralympians due to the lack of additional supports and services.”
Canada finished tied for 15th with India in the total medal count and tied for 11th with Germany and Uzbekistan in gold medals among 168 countries.
Canadians achieved podium finishes in seven sports.
Swimming and track and field led with a combined 22 medals, including all 10 gold.
“They had a really good mix of new and more experienced athletes performing at the highest level,” said CPC Chief Sport Officer Catherine Gosselin-Després.
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