Para Sport Nation

On this episode of Para Sport Nation Paralympian Trinity Lowthian recounts how a love of niche sports led her to wheelchair fencing and a record-breaking result for Canada at the 2024 Paris Paralympics. She reflects on a quiet but rewarding competitive season, including a bronze medal at the Brazil World Cup and a top 10 finish at the 2025 World Championships in South Korea.

Trinity explains the challenges of training as the only athlete in her classification in Canada, the excitement of fencing inside Paris’s Grand Palais, and the methodical approach that connects her athletic, academic, and coaching pursuits.

She also talks about balancing graduate studies in sport management at the University of Ottawa with elite competition, her coaching role at the Ottawa Fencing Club, and how teaching others sharpens her own skills. From juggling as a pre-match ritual to her dream of fencing outdoors on a Scottish cliffside, Trinity offers a candid look at life as a world-class para-athlete.

Plus, towards the end of the program, Nathan stirs things up with a hot question: custom sport jerseys—yay or nay?

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AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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Alex Hayward shares his journey leading up to his first World Championship title. After choosing to train from home in New Brunswick, Alex balanced work, life, and rigorous cycling training—completing every planned workout in the eight months leading up to the competition. Despite a back injury and equipment challenges on race day, his discipline and mental resilience carried him through, culminating in an unforgettable victory.

Alex also highlights the bronze medal he earned in the European road race, the increasing calibre of para-cycling competition, and the growing media coverage elevating the sport. Beyond cycling, he discusses how being close to family and friends, a new home base, and workplace camaraderie positively influenced his performance and life balance.

Looking ahead, Alex plans to continue training from home, participate in local events, and prepare for future World Cups, embracing both personal and athletic growth.

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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On this episode, Rob Shaw breaks down his latest US Open experience—from a dramatic three-set first-round win to a tough singles loss and the demands of doubles play with longtime partner Heath Davidson. He discusses the physical toll of a near year-round international schedule, the importance of mental resilience, and how pursuing a PhD helped him stay grounded as a full-time athlete. Rob also offers an inside look at the growing movement to integrate wheelchair tennis with ATP and WTA events, the need for equal access across divisions, and his hopes for the future of the sport. Along the way, he shares lessons in consistency, courage, and finding balance beyond competition.

Plus, The NHL Media Tour recently wrapped up in Las Vegas, where Canadian Blind Hockey’s Luca DeMontis promoted the sport and shared its story. He stops by the show to talk about his experience in Vegas and how NHL players and media responded to blind hockey.

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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Para archery is a sport of precision, strategy, and resilience. In this in-depth conversation, Team Canada’s Kyle Tremblay explains the structure of para archery competitions, from qualification rounds and elimination matches to the intense pressure of single-arrow shoot-offs.

Kyle opens up about his journey into para archery after an accident, the challenges of competing in a sport where focus and consistency are everything, and how he rebuilt his confidence after returning from injury. He reflects on highlights like winning a Parapan Am bronze in a dramatic shoot-off and setting a personal best at the Paris Paralympics.

The discussion also dives into the mental game, training under pressure, and the technical side of archery—from equipment tuning to handling environmental factors like wind and heat. Kyle shares his sights on future competitions, including the 2026 Pan American Championships, the World Championships in Australia, and the road toward LA 2028.

Plus, with the NFL season officially underway Alex and Dave have a para sport fantasy draft to create the best Paralympic Games!

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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The Mobility Cup is Canada’s premier adaptive sailing competition, bringing together athletes of all abilities to compete on equal terms. In this conversation, René Dallaire shares the history of the event, its roots in Vancouver in 1991, and its tradition of moving from city to city each year.

From the unique challenges and opportunities of hosting in Montreal, to the technology that makes sailing possible for athletes with varying disabilities, the episode highlights the power of sport, inclusion, and innovation. Dallaire also discusses standout performances, including winners Brian Pickover, Tracy “Unstoppable” Schmidt, and Andrew Davis, while reflecting on the lasting legacy of the Mobility Cup across Canada.

The discussion closes with a look ahead to Vancouver’s 2026 hosting and Dallaire’s personal dream destinations for future sailing adventures.

Also, Alex and Dave discuss the recently concluded inaugural Women’s Para Ice Hockey World Championships!

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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In this episode of ParaSport Nation, Alex Smyth and guest co-host Kelly MacDonald dive into the latest in Canadian para sport. The show begins with big news from Canadian Blind Hockey, announcing three new programs across Victoria and Edmonton — a clear sign of the sport’s national growth.

Next, Paralympic sit skier Kurt Oatway joins the conversation to discuss his breakout 2024–25 season, the technical details behind his customized sit ski, and why he thrives in speed events like downhill and Super-G. Kurt opens up about the financial and logistical hurdles of off-season training, his love for hard, compact snow, and why he competes without music — a rarity in elite sport.

Then, Paralympic snowboarder Tyler Turner reflects on a season of hard lessons and renewed motivation. Despite setbacks, he captured both the Crystal Globe and World Championship titles. Turner explains how fierce competition from U.S. and Japanese riders is raising the bar, why snowboard cross is his true passion, and how skydiving, base jumping, and mountain biking keep him in peak form year-round.

Finally, Alex and Kelly wrap up with a spirited round of “Blind Power Rankings,” ranking Paralympic winter sports from ice hockey to alpine skiing.

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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In this episode of Para Sport Nation, host Alex Smyth and guest co-host Kelly MacDonald speak with Cindy Burwell, Executive Director of the Ottawa 2026 Wheelchair Basketball World Championships. Cindy reveals what it takes to plan an international competition with over 300 athletes, from booking venues and transportation to ensuring every detail meets accessibility standards.

The conversation dives into how Ottawa is working with tourism, hospitality, and local businesses to create a welcoming environment for athletes and fans with disabilities. Cindy also highlights the legacy programs already in motion, including introducing wheelchair basketball in schools and creating permanent practice courts to grow adaptive sports in Ottawa.

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Alex shares interviews with Four para-athletes competing at the 2025 Summer Games.

• Christel Robichaud, team captain and veteran competitor, shares her thoughts on the bittersweet emotions of her final Canada Games. From leading teammates to chasing podium finishes, she reflects on lessons learned and what comes next.
• A record-setter in discus and shot put, Rémi Ouellette also competes in para ice hockey. He reflects on training, resilience, and what drives him to excel in multiple sports.
• At just 17, Addisyn Franceschini has already broken the Canadian F64 women’s discus record and is competing in both discus and shot put at the 2025 Canada Games. She opens up about representing Team Ontario, her Paralympic dreams, and her fast-rising journey in para-athletics.
• Already a medalist at Nationals and the Canada Games, Tai Young shares his journey of growth as a wheelchair racer. From weather challenges to tactical racing, gear setup, and balancing school and media work, Tai opens up about life on and off the track.

Hear how they prepare, what motivates them, and their goals for the future — on and off the field!

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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The 2025 Canada Games are just about wrapped up, and CEO Karen Sherriffs reflects on what it takes to host the country’s biggest multi-sport event. From overcoming unexpected challenges—including nearby wildfires and an airline strike—to ensuring athletes can still compete at the highest level, the Games have been a story of resilience and teamwork.

Karen shares her personal journey with the Canada Games, beginning in 1999 and leading to her current role as CEO. She highlights the unique community footprint of St. John’s, the importance of newly built facilities like the Fortis Canada Games Complex, and the dedication of over 5,000 volunteers who make the Games possible.

This conversation explores the evolution of the Canada Games, the inclusion of para-athletes, and the lasting legacy of investment, infrastructure, and community spirit that St. John’s will carry forward long after the final medal is awarded.

Plus, up and coming wheelchair racer Dante Cormier joins the show to talk about his success at the Games. He shares how he’s preparing for his strongest races, what fuels his success, and his goals for the future.

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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On this episode of Para Sport Nation, Christina Picton talks about the significance of competing at the first-ever Women’s Para Ice Hockey World Championships and what it means for her personally after joining the sport at just 11 years old. She highlights the team’s preparation — from rivalry series games against the USA to national training camps — and the shared focus and energy heading into competition.

Christina also discusses her transition into Nordic skiing, her 2022 Paralympic experience, and how cross-training has boosted her performance on the ice. She opens up about training with her fiancé and fellow Paralympian Colin Cameron, her work as a graphic designer for para sport events, and her favorite food destinations from her travels.

Looking ahead, Christina shares her hopes for gaining Paralympic status for women’s para ice hockey, the importance of inspiring the next generation of players, and ways supporters can get involved — from grassroots development to sponsorship and volunteering.

Plus, Alex and Nathan have another edition of blind power ranking. This time Nathan has to rank para sports that are currently not in the Paralympics!

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About AMI

AMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.

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