Today at the Arena di Verona, the Opening Ceremonies took place, marking the official commencement of the 50th Winter Paralympic Games in Milano Cortina.
Para hockey player Tyler McGregor and Para Nordic skier Natalie Wilkie were announced as Canada’s flag bearers for the celebration that honoured the 50 Canadians ahead of competition.
However, to prepare for their competitions, none of the Canadian athletes partook in the Opening Ceremonies at Arena de Verona, instead they participated in smaller ceremonies in their respective villages.
Upcoming Saskatchewan competition
The first day of Paralympic competition will see three Saskatchewan connections making their return to the Games and another making their Paralympic debut.
Para alpine skier Kurt Oatway, who got his start in Regina, will be hitting the slopes at 4:55 a.m. SK time for the men’s downhill sitting event.
Brittany Hudak, who hails from Prince Albert, will be competing in the Para biathlon women’s sprint standing event at 5:00 a.m. SK time.
Kipling’s Gil Dash will be hitting the sheet for his debut with the Canadian wheelchair curling team as they play host country, Italy at 11:35 a.m. SK time.
Meanwhile, the Canadian Para ice hockey team will face off with Slovakia at 1:35 p.m. SK time, with Saskatoon’s Dean Seymour joining as video coach.
Paralympic Notes: A full recap to this point is available at Paralympic.ca