Canada Dominates Wheelchair Curling at 2026 Paralympics

The Canadian wheelchair curling team continues to impress at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, maintaining a perfect record and securing a spot in the semifinals. The team’s strong performance is highlighted by strategic play and a dominant presence on the ice.

Canada Defeats Latvia 11-1

On Monday, March 9, 2026, Team Canada defeated Team Latvia 11-1 in six ends. The Canadians established a significant lead early in the game, mirroring their successful start against Italy in their opening match. A large steal in the first end set the tone for the remainder of the competition.

Latvia had opportunities to close the gap, but crucial misses on key shots allowed Canada to extend their lead. In the fourth end, a missed takeout attempt by Latvia’s Sergejs Djacenko resulted in a steal of four points for Canada. Further steals in the fifth end solidified Canada’s advantage, leading to an 11-0 score before Latvia could secure a single point in the sixth end.

Team Composition and Paralympic Debut

Team Canada consists of skip Mark Ideson (London, Ont.); vice-skip/third Jon Thurston (Dunsford, Ont.); second Ina Forrest (Spallumcheen, B.C.); and fifth Gilbert Dash (Kipling, Sask.). Gilbert Dash, a five-time national champion, made his Paralympic debut during the games, having previously earned a bronze medal at the 2025 World Wheelchair Curling Championship in Scotland.

Strong Performance and Team Dynamics

“We just had a really great ice-rock combination this morning, and so rocks were travelling really well, and we were reading the sheet well,” said Ina Forrest, attributing the team’s success to a combination of factors. The team benefited from a supportive atmosphere, with approximately 40 friends and family members cheering them on in the historic Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.

Canada’s Medal Count and Overall Paralympic Games Performance

As of March 9, 2026, Canada has secured seven medals at the Milan Cortina Paralympics: one gold, three silver, and three bronze. Canada’s wheelchair curling team’s undefeated run contributes to the nation’s overall success. China currently leads the medal count with eight gold and 17 total medals, followed by Ukraine with three gold and 10 total medals, and Austria with three gold and four total medals.

Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games

The Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, taking place from March 6-15, 2026, feature athletes competing in six sports: Para alpine skiing, Para ice hockey, Para nordic skiing (Para biathlon and Para cross-country skiing), Para snowboard, and wheelchair curling. Canada is expecting to send a team of approximately 50 athletes to the games. [Paralympic.ca]