CALGARY – Winnipeg para-swimmer and seven-time Paralympic champion Kirby Cote is one of six athletes who will be inducted into the Canada Sports Hall of Fame this October, the Hall announced Wednesday.
Cote, a visually impaired para-swimmer competing in the S13 category, competed in three Paralympic Games and won a total of 13 medals (seven gold and six silver).
“I am honoured to be inducted into the Canada Sports Hall of Fame in 2024 as a representative of Paralympic swimming,” said Cote. “These events bring me joy because they allow me to thank and highlight those who have loved and supported me on my Paralympic journey.”
In Sydney 2000, she burst onto the international stage with two gold medals (both in world record time) and two silver medals. In Athens 2004, she dominated her category with five gold and two silver medals. Four years later in Beijing, she added two more silver medals.
In addition, she won six gold medals at two World Championships (2002 and 2006) and a bronze medal in a multi-class race at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Cote, currently executive director of Accessible Sports Connection Manitoba, was inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in 2018.
“I wouldn’t be celebrating these accomplishments if it weren’t for my family or the blind and visually impaired athletes and builders who have paved the way for me,” added Cote. “I come from the birthplace of accessible sport in Canada and am proud to be part of the advocacy we continue to build.”
In addition to Cote, the 2024 athletes category includes middle-distance runner Angela Chalmers, figure skater Patrick Chan, tennis player Daniel Nestor, Vicky Sunohara (ice hockey) and the late Fred Thomas (multisport).
Dr. Guylaine Demers and Alex Nelson will be honored in the “Builders” category. High jumper Debbie Brill will be honored in the “Pioneers” category.
The class of 2024 will receive the Order of Sport and be officially inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame (CSHoF) on October 23, 2024, at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec, during the 68th Annual Order of Sport Awards Ceremony.
“Gamer. Introvert. Problem solver. Creator. Thinker. Lifelong food evangelist. Alcohol advocate.”