Rod
Backie

Rod Backie was a trailblazer in Canadian Para alpine skiing who represented Canada on the international stage at the inaugural Winter Paralympic Games in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden, in 1976. Competing in the Men’s Slalom event, Backie achieved a commendable 12th-place finish, demonstrating determination and skill in an era when adaptive sports were still in their infancy.

Backie’s participation at the Örnsköldsvik 1976 Games marked a significant moment in Canadian Paralympic history. As one of the athletes representing Canada in the debut Winter Paralympics, he helped lay the foundation for the future of Para alpine skiing in the country. His efforts not only showcased the talent of Canadian athletes with disabilities but also inspired a new generation to pursue excellence in Para sport.

While detailed records of Backie’s post-Paralympic career remain scarce, his legacy endures as a symbol of perseverance and dedication. Rod Backie’s contribution to Canadian Para alpine skiing remains an essential chapter in the story of Canada’s Paralympic Movement, reflecting the spirit of resilience and sportsmanship that defines the Games.