Weekly round-up: Tristen Chernove takes off on BC Epic 1000

Even though Canada’s Paralympians are not able to compete right now, or train at their normal pace, they are still keeping themselves busy whether it’s doing at-home workouts, virtual chatting with friends and family, or sharing their stories in the news and on social media. Each week, we compile various top social posts and articles to see what Canadian Para athletes have been up to. Here are some highlights from the past week: 

On July 18, Paralympic Games cycling multiple medallist Tristen Chernove began the BC Epic 1000, an almost entirely off-road and self-supported ride that is considered a feat of mental and physical endurance. He is fundraising for the Paralympic Foundation of Canada, which raises funds to provide more opportunities for Canadians with a disability to be active in sport.

Chernove is nearing completion of this incredible journey and is keeping fans informed on his progress.

At 4 am this morning, @TristenChernove started his second day on the BC Epic. He’s making fabulous pace after one day! @CDNParalympics Follow his progress live: https://t.co/H5BZ7DCBtN pic.twitter.com/alNMaxIpQP

— Cycling Canada (@CyclingCanada) July 19, 2020

Th great @TristenChernove had a big first day on his BC Epic ride! pic.twitter.com/wzVpfq9f7x

— Cycling Canada (@CyclingCanada) July 19, 2020

Just before the start of his ride, Tristen talked about his project to Scott Russell of CBC. 

On Friday, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, hosted a virtual conversation about the pandemic and persons with disabilities. Guests included 20-time Paralympic Games medallist Benoit Huot.

Wheelchair basketball player Westley Johnston, a member of the 2017 men’s U23 world championships team, recently held a wheelchair basketball camp in his hometown of Kinkora, PEI.

Hometown Boy ⁦@Westleyjohnston⁩ helping run Wheelchair Basketball Camp ⁦@KinkoraPEI⁩ this morning with the kids. Atta Boy Wes. ⁦@WCBballCanada⁩ ⁦@ParaSportPEI⁩ pic.twitter.com/dAZJVk9GYX

— Paul M. Schurman (@PaulMSports) July 16, 2020

Boccia Canada is currently holding a virtual tournament for its players from across the country. Here are the Week 2 highlights:

Abi Tripp of the Canadian national Para swimming team shared her favorite inspirational quote.

World Para Swimming Championships medallist, Abi Tripp, shares her favourite motivational quote! #MotivationMonday pic.twitter.com/Maki6W8I5B

— Swimming Canada / Natation Canada (@SwimmingCanada) July 20, 2020

Visually impaired world champion runner Guillaume Ouellet is capitalizing on the postponement of the Games to spend time with family and heal nagging injuries.  Click HERE for full story.