Fergus native Patrick Anderson has been named one of the two flag bearers for Canada, as announced by the Canadian Paralympic Committee Tuesday morning.
Veteran para swimmer Katarina Roxon is the other flag bearer.
Anderson is going into his sixth and final Paralympic Games for wheelchair basketball, and considered one of the best to ever play the game.
He has three Paralympic gold medals (2000, 2004, 2012) and a silver (2008). The 45-year-old said it is a big honour and a special thing to be named flag bearer.
"This is a special country and an opportunity to represent wheelchair basketball in front of the world and the entire Canadian Paralympic Team," he said in a news release.
"It was very much a surprise. I’ve been chosen, and I will step up. It’s going to be really cool."
Canada has sent 126 athletes to Paris in 18 sports.
The opening ceremony goes Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.
Anderson and the wheelchair basketball team will play its first round robin game Friday against France.
The Road to Paris
"Katarina and Pat are both such deserving recipients of this honour," said Karolina Wisniewska, co-chef de mission of the Paris 2024 Canadian Paralympic Team. "With nine previous Paralympic Games appearances and six Paralympic medals between them, they are among Canada's most accomplished Paralympians ever. Beyond their undeniable athletic achievements, they have been leaders on their teams for so many years, making a huge impact on the development of their sports and Para sport as a whole."
A Legacy of Success
Anderson's journey to Paris has been a testament to his unwavering dedication to wheelchair basketball. At 45 years old, he stands as one of the most decorated athletes in the sport's history. His six Paralympic appearances, spanning from Sydney 2000 to Tokyo 2020, solidify his place among the game's elite. His four Paralympic medals, including gold at Sydney 2000, Athens 2004, and London 2012, further cement his legacy.
Anderson's impact on the sport extends beyond his individual accomplishments. His leadership and mentorship have nurtured a new generation of wheelchair basketball players, ensuring the sport's continued success.
A Newfoundlander's Journey
Katarina Roxon's journey to becoming a Paralympic icon has been equally inspiring. Making her Paralympic debut at Beijing 2008 as the youngest member of the Canadian swimming team, she has consistently defied expectations. Her first Paralympic gold medal came at Rio 2016, where she dominated the women's SB8 100m breaststroke. At Tokyo 2020, she added a bronze medal to her collection as part of the women's 4x100m freestyle relay team. Her fifth Paralympic appearance in Paris will make her the first Canadian female para swimmer to achieve this remarkable feat.
Roxon's dedication to her sport is evident in her unwavering pursuit of excellence. Her ability to overcome adversity and inspire others has made her a role model for athletes and individuals alike.
Leading the Way
As flagbearers for Canada at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Anderson and Roxon embody the spirit of perseverance and dedication that defines the Paralympic movement. Their combined nine Paralympic Games appearances and six Paralympic medals speak volumes of their achievements and their contributions to the sport. Their leadership qualities and dedication to their respective sports have made them pillars of the Canadian Paralympic team.
The opening ceremony will take place on Wednesday, August 28th, and is a perfect way to kick off the games.
A New Chapter for Canadian Paralympians
The Paris 2024 Paralympics are poised to be a landmark event for Canada's Paralympic team. Led by veterans Anderson and Roxon, Canada is set to showcase its athletic prowess and inspire the next generation of Paralympic athletes. With 126 athletes competing across 18 sports, Canada is determined to make its mark on the world stage. As the team prepares for competition, the excitement and anticipation for the games are building, promising a thrilling spectacle of athleticism and determination.
The opening ceremony will be a spectacle, and it is sure to be a momentous occasion for both Canada and the Paralympic movement.
The games will be an exciting time for everyone involved, and the entire world will be watching!
