Three-time World and Paralympic gold medalist Sonja Gaudet from Vernon, B.C. made it into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in the Class of 2020-21.
After an unfortunate equestrian accident that left her paralyzed from the chest down, Gaudet – at age 31 and with support from her husband, two young kids aged six and three at the time of her accident, plus her community – persevered and became Canada’s most decorated Paralympic curler, winning three Paralympic gold medals and three world wheelchair curling championships.
Prior to the accident she also played a wide variety of sports, from basketball and volleyball to swimming, tennis and skiing.
Gaudet serves as an inspirational speaker in schools and working as an accessibility specialist with the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, promoting “Access for All” initiatives across the tourism industry in B.C.
On Wednesday, May 27, following 11 members comprising Six athletes and five builders were chosen this year into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame (2020-21).
Sonja Gaudet – Curling
John “Jackie” Barrett – Athlete, Powerlifting and Special Olympian;
Diane Jones Konihowski – Athlete, Athletics
Lorie Kane – Athlete, Golf;
Eric Lamaze and Hickstead – Team, Equestrian – Show Jumping;
Steve Nash – Athlete, Basketball;
Duncan Campbell – Builder, Wheelchair Rugby:
Sheldon Kennedy – Builder, Ice Hockey;
Judy Kent – Builder, Sport Administration;
Willie O’Ree – Builder, Ice Hockey;
Ross Powless – Builder, Lacrosse.
The Canadian Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place sometime in 2021.