The accolades keep stacking up for the Canada's most decorated wheelchair curler.
Sonja Gaudet, of Vernon, has been inducted into the Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame, the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) announced Wednesday, Oct. 8.
She is one of three accomplished and distinguished Paralympians – Benoit Huot (Para swimming), and Todd Nicholson (Para ice hockey) – alongside world-class coach Paul Bowes (wheelchair basketball) to earn the nod.
Gaudet won three Paralympic gold medals from her three Games appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2014 and was named the nation’s Closing Ceremony flag bearer for the 2014 Games. She is also a three-time world champion, winning gold with the Canadian team in 2009, 2011, and 2013.
She was the first wheelchair curler to be inducted into the Curling Canada Hall of Fame (2013), Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame (2020), and BC Sports Hall of Fame (2020). She was also inducted into the World Curling Hall of Fame last year. Notably, she was featured on an official postage stamp in 2018 as part of Canada Post’s Women in Winter Sports commemorative series of stamps.
“This induction is an incredible honour; one I take to heart and hold with great respect,” said Gaudet. “My career as a Para athlete, competing alongside my teammates at the Paralympic Games and world championships, has given me some of the most impactful, memorable, and influential experiences of my life. Sport has always been a powerful tool for me, one that has helped carry and guide me through life’s difficult times. I am sincerely thankful to all who have supported me throughout my Paralympic journey."
This marks the first Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame induction since 2019 as CPC restores its important celebration of those who have made significant impacts on the Paralympic Movement in Canada. A new class of inductees will be announced every two years.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to represent Canada and the sport of wheelchair curling, and to be part of a movement that has the power to create change and make a meaningful and lasting difference," said Gaudet. "I will continue to champion Para sport and the Paralympic Movement as powerful vehicles for transforming lives, shifting perceptions, and advancing inclusion and accessibility across communities in Canada and around the world.”
Marc-André Fabien, president, Canadian Paralympic Committee, congratulates all of the inductees.
“Their accomplishments on the global stage are undeniable, but their credentials go far beyond victories – they have all been incredible champions for the advancement and growth of Paralympic sport, helping shape a brighter future with greater access, support, and recognition.
“Thank you, Sonja, Benoit, Todd, and Paul – you have all made a lasting difference and are important figures in Canada’s decorated history in Paralympic sport. We are so proud to celebrate each of you.”
