Three new athlete representative positions are up for election on the Canadian Paralympic Athletes’ Council, with voting commencing on November 12.
The nominated athletes for election are:
Tristen Chernove, Para Cycling
Ina Forrest, Wheelchair Curling
Erica Gavel, Wheelchair Basketball
Kurt Oatway, Para Alpine
Mike Whitehead, Wheelchair Rugby
The three open positions are for two summer athletes (including one team sport athlete) and one winter athlete. Athletes who have competed in the last four Paralympic Games (London 2012, Sochi 2014, Rio 2016, and PyeongChang 2018) are eligible to vote.
The Athletes’ Council is led by chair Tony Walby (Para Judo), who was elected in 2018. Outgoing members are vice chair Ross Wilson (Para Cycling), Erica Gavel (Wheelchair Basketball) – who is seeking another term – and Kirk Schornstein (Para Alpine), while current members are Alison Levine (Boccia), Jennifer Brown (Para Athletics), and Rob Armstrong (Para Ice Hockey).
“I really encourage all eligible athletes to vote,” said Walby. “Voting is an important way to have your voice heard. The Athletes’ Council helps to ensure that athletes’ recommendations, perspectives, and ideas are included in decision-making and we are here to represent all Canadian Paralympic athletes. Best of luck to all of the candidates.”
Eligible athletes have been sent voting details directly via email and can vote between now and December 7 to help decide who their representatives on the council will be for the next term.
For all of the information on the Athletes’ Council, how to vote, and the candidates, please visit Paralympic.ca/athletes-council.
