IGNITING Change: Abi Tripp’s Journey to Paralympic Greatness

Three-time Paralympian Abi Tripp has become a pillar of Canada’s Para swimming program, but her journey to the international stage began with something much deeper than talent: belief.

Belief in her potential, belief in the power of inclusion, and belief from a community of supporters who stood behind her every stroke of the way.

“I was born with cerebral palsy, and although I tried many sports growing up, it wasn’t until I found swimming that I truly discovered where I belonged,” Abi shares. “Swimming gave me the freedom to be myself… it sparked a dream to one day represent Canada.”

That dream started to take shape when she watched her teammates compete at the Guadalajara 2011 Parapan American Games. Just four years later, Abi earned her first call-up to the national team, competing at the 2015 Parapan Am Games in Toronto. Then came the moment she’ll never forget, making her Paralympic debut in Rio 2016.

“When I walked into the Athletes Village and saw athletes from all over the world with disabilities being celebrated for their strength and performance, it was life-changing,” she says. “Disability wasn’t something to hide… it was something powerful.”

Since then, Abi has gone on to represent Canada at three Paralympic Games: Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024. Each Games has brought new challenges, new growth, and new meaning to the power of sport.

And behind every one of those milestones is a support system that includes the Paralympic Foundation of Canada.

“The support I’ve received through the Paralympic Foundation of Canada has given me confidence in the moments of uncertainty, knowing that someone believes in me, and in what we’re trying to build,” Abi says. “That belief is everything.”

Whether it’s funding training camps, access to coaching, or helping ease the financial burden of high-performance sport, the Foundation plays a vital role in helping athletes like Abi reach their full potential.

Now a leader and mentor on the team, Abi hopes to inspire others just as her teammates once inspired her.

“My dream came true, and now I want to help others achieve theirs,” she says. “Thanks to the Foundation and the donors who support it, we’re building a stronger future for Para sport in Canada. Your support really does make all the difference.”

As the Paralympic Foundation of Canada celebrates its 10-year anniversary, Abi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of philanthropy in sport. Through the unwavering support of donors, Canada’s Paralympians continue to break barriers, redefine possibilities, and inspire the next generation of athletes.

Donate today. Help IGNITE the future of Para sport.