Zachary
Gingras

Zachary Gingras, born on July 30, 2001, in Markham, Ontario, has rapidly emerged as a leading figure in Canadian Para athletics. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects muscle coordination and movement, Gingras has shown remarkable resilience and dedication to his sport.

Gingras made a spectacular Paralympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, earning a bronze medal in the Men’s T38 400m event. His time of 50.85 seconds set a new Canadian record. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his career and highlighted his potential on the international stage​​​​.

In 2023, Gingras captured a silver medal at the World Para Athletics Championships in Paris, improving his national record to 50.23 seconds. This performance solidified his reputation as one of the top competitors in his classification​​​​.

Gingras’s journey in athletics began with notable victories at the junior level. He won gold in the 800m at the 2017 World Junior Championships and the 2018 World Games, showcasing his potential early on. In 2019, he transitioned to senior-level competition with impressive results. At the Parapan American Games in Lima, Gingras claimed a silver medal in the T38 400m final with a personal best of 53.16 seconds. Later that year, he finished eighth in the 400m at the IPC World Championships​​​​.

Continuing his upward trajectory, Gingras’s performance at the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics earned him a bronze medal in the 400m event, reinforcing his status as a top-tier athlete. His dedication and hard work have made him a prominent figure in Para athletics, inspiring many with his achievements and resilience​​​​.

Balancing his athletic career, Gingras is also pursuing a degree in computer science at the University of Victoria. His story is one of determination and perseverance, embodying the spirit of Paralympic sport and serving as an inspiration to many. As he prepares for the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, Gingras aims to build on his past successes and continue making Canada proud on the world stage​​.

Zachary Gingras’s journey from a young athlete with cerebral palsy to a Paralympic medalist is a testament to his resilience and dedication. His achievements in athletics highlight his exceptional talent and commitment to representing Canada at the highest levels of competition.