Priscilla
Gagné

Priscilla Gagné is set to represent Canada at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, marking her third consecutive appearance at the Paralympics. Born in Granby, Quebec, and raised in Sarnia, Ontario, Gagné has become a trailblazer in the world of Para judo, inspiring many with her perseverance and dedication.

Gagné’s journey in judo began in 2010 after initially competing in wrestling. She switched to judo seeking more competitive opportunities, a decision that led her to become a leading figure in the sport. Her rise in the sport was marked by significant achievements, including her first major international success in 2015 when she won a bronze medal at a Para judo World Cup in Hungary. That same year, she secured a silver at the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games.

In 2018, Gagné became the first Canadian woman to win a medal in Para judo at the World Championships, earning a bronze. She continued her success by winning gold at the Pan American Para judo championships in both 2018 and 2020, and a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, where she also had the honor of being Team Canada’s flag bearer for the Opening Ceremony​​​​.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including a major injury in 2011 where she broke both feet, and undergoing hip surgery in 2020, Gagné’s resolve remained unshaken. Her resilience was evident when she won a silver medal at a Para judo Grand Prix in Tokyo in December 2023, just two weeks after injuring her ankle, and added a bronze medal at a Grand Prix in Germany in February 2024​​.

Gagné trains at the Judo Canada National Training Centre in Montreal under the guidance of coach Andrzej Sadej. She competes in the women’s 57 kg J1 category and is currently ranked fifth in the world and fourth in Paralympic qualification​​.

Born with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic eye disorder, Gagné has four degrees of peripheral vision and no central vision, categorizing her as blind. This has not deterred her from pursuing her dreams. She is a graduate of the evangelism program at Rhema Bible College in Oklahoma and Everest College’s addictions and community services worker program in Barrie, Ontario​​.

Gagné’s career is a testament to her determination and passion for judo. As she competes in Paris 2024, she not only represents Canada but also embodies the dreams and aspirations of many Canadians.