On Tuesday, more than 1,200 students gathered at the Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard for the biggest day yet of the 42nd Défi Sportif AlterGo. Cheered on by their teachers, caregivers, and parents, they challenged themselves in 8 different sports. In Boucherville, the country’s top wheelchair curlers clashed in day 2 of competition.
Another fantastic day at the Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard
More than 1,200 students from 58 schools and 7 regions across Quebec descended on the Complexe sportif on Tuesday to compete in track and field, rhythmic gymnastics, functional circuit training, and para rowing events.
One of them was Gabriel Boileau of Joseph-Amédée-Bélanger School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, who was attending the Défi Sportif AlterGo for the very first time.
“I loved it!” he declared.
What part did he like best?
“All of it!” exclaimed the young man.
It was a very busy day for Boileau, who took part in the relay race, the 150m race, and the long jump. His favourite event was the 150m race, because it allowed him to sprint. “You run really fast all the way to the end,” explained Boileau as his teacher, Véronique De Blois, looked on in awe. “There were some big kids racing with you!” she said.
Unlike Boileau, De Blois has attended the Défi Sportif AlterGo in the past, with other students. For her, it is a privilege to witness the accomplishments of her school’s young representatives. “I’m so glad the kids get to experience this. They have so much pride in their eyes. We’re lucky to be able to experience it with them.”
As she sees it, the Défi Sportif AlterGo is more than just a sports event; it is a celebration of difference. “The kids become aware that there are people who are not like them. It leads to some very interesting conversations.”
Both Quebec teams win their matches
At the Centre des glaces Gilles-Chabot in Boucherville, the Wheelchair Curling Championship continued as the athletes proved their precision and talent.
The two Quebec teams won their respective matches: Luc Hamel’s team won 9-5 against Shauna Petrie’s Ontario team, while Carl Marquis’ team beat the Newfoundland and Labrador team 8-6. Meanwhile, the 2024 champion team, led by Saskatchewan’s Gilbert Dash, lost to Martin Purvis’s Alberta team.
More young people expected for Wednesday’s mini-marathon under the sun
On Wednesday, April 30, more than 1,100 students from 40 educational establishments will participate in the ever-popular mini-marathon. This year, the traditional event, in which young people take part in a variety of races, with or without mobility aids, will be held on the outdoor track of the Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard.
Also on Wednesday, the preliminary rounds of the Canadian Wheelchair Curling Championships will continue, with 11 matches on the program.
