I’m Katarina Roxon, a Paralympic gold and bronze medallist in swimming for Team Canada. Before that level of international success was even a dream, competing in the Canada Games completely transformed the course of my life. Up until that point, I was just a quiet little swimmer, doing my own thing in the pool. The Canada Games were my breakout into becoming the athlete I am now.

It was 2005. I was 12 years old and I had only just discovered para swimming. The Games were my first big competition and I was really nervous behind the blocks. I was the only para swimmer on Team Newfoundland and Labrador, and at that point I had never seen anybody else with a disability swim before. That was truly an eye-opening experience for me.

I remember being really nervous before the final race. I wished all my opponents good luck and just tried to have fun. When I finished the race, I looked over at Team NL and my parents,and I could see everyone jumping and cheering and waving the Newfoundland and Labrador flag. I had just won a silver medal in the 100m breaststroke – the first medal for Team NL at those Games.

It’s all a bit of a blur after that. But I remember seeing my parents and how emotional and happy they were, and being recognized at the Village by other athletes and teams, and all these people coming up to me and congratulating me. It was a super exciting moment for a little 12-year-old from Kippens, NL.

After the 2005 Canada Games, my trajectory as an athlete kicked into another gear. That same year, I made Team Canada and competed at my first Can Am Swimming Championship followed by my first IPC World Swimming Championship in 2006. I went on to compete at my first Paralympic Games in 2008. I have since become a Paralympic gold and bronze medallist and represented Canada at four Paralympic Games, and I’m currently racing towards my fifth.

When I reflect on my athletic career, without a doubt the Canada Games were my big, breakout moment. That was when Newfoundland and Labrador learned my name and when I stepped onto the scene in the para swimming world. It’s a huge part of my story and one that I’m super proud of and grateful for. I don’t think I’d be me without it.

We hear about how the Canada Games “spark greatness” in the next generation. It’s true. I’ve lived it. The Games are a remarkable stepping stone for so many talented athletes across the country. They have this amazing opportunity to go to the Canada Games and it can be the start of their journey towards something greater. The Games can flip the switch and change you, opening doors to new opportunities and inspiring you to pursue your full potential.

I love the Canada Games and I cannot wait to welcome that next generation of athletes to my home province at the next Games in 2025. I’m thrilled to be part of the Board for the 2025 Host Society and to give back to the Canada Games Movement whenever I can. I had the time of my life at the Games. It’s one of the best experiences I’ve ever had and one that I will never forget. I’m paying it forward, and I hope that you will too.

Please consider a financial gift today to the Canada Games Council (charitable number 131976052 RR 0001) and help spark greatness in the next generation of Canadian athletes. These young people are the champions and leaders of tomorrow, and I hope you’ll support this opportunity for them to shine on the national stage. We can’t wait to see how far they will go from there.

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Sincerely,

Katarina M Roxon, PLY
Paralympic Champion
Team NL 2005
Swimming