Ina Forrest Pursues Historic Achievements at Fifth Paralympics in Wheelchair Curling
Ina Forrest is on the brink of a significant milestone as she prepares for her fifth career Paralympics in wheelchair curling. This remarkable achievement positions her as the first athlete in the sport’s history to reach such a milestone. Scheduled to take place in March 2026 in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, this event could continue to cement her legacy in the sport.
Unmatched Career in Wheelchair Curling
At 63 years old, Forrest has not only participated in five Paralympic Games but has also medalled in each of them. She earned gold in her debut at the 2010 Vancouver Games, followed by a gold medal in Sochi (2014), bronzes in Pyeongchang (2018) and Beijing (2022). Her consistent excellence makes her the only individual—male or female—to win four Paralympic medals in wheelchair curling.
Pioneering Influence on the Ice
Forrest’s journey began in a rural setting near Fort St. John, British Columbia, where she learned the importance of resilience and mental strength from her pioneering parents. “Growing up, it was all about being tough and handling challenges,” Forrest reflected. This lesson shaped her competitive attitude, especially in the high-pressure environment of curling.
Her coach, Mick Lizmore, believes she has reached a new level of performance, stating, “I think she’s the best version of herself that she’s ever been.” As Forrest continues to hone her skills and strategies, her focus has become sharper, leveraging her extensive experience to manage game pressure.
Team Dynamics and Upcoming Challenges
During the upcoming Games, Forrest will play alongside teammates including veteran skip Mark Ideson and lead Collinda Joseph, among others. Their team not only aims for a medal but also to forge a cohesive unit under the immense pressure of international competition.
- Team Canada’s lineup includes:
- Skip: Mark Ideson
- Lead: Collinda Joseph
- Third: Jon Thurston
- Alternate: Gilbert Dash
The opening match will be against the host team from Italy on March 7. The Canadians, currently ranked second globally, will also compete against formidable teams from China, Great Britain, Latvia, Sweden, and the United States during the round-robin stage.
A Legacy Beyond Medals
Forrest’s profound impact on wheelchair curling extends beyond her athletic achievements. As a co-captain of Canada’s Paralympic delegation, she offers invaluable leadership to younger teammates. “Her calming presence is crucial in high-stakes moments,” commented coach Lizmore.
As she looks forward to the upcoming Paralympics, Forrest remains motivated by her love for the sport and the thrill of competition. She believes that continuous improvement is key to staying engaged, stating, “It’s always changing, and that keeps you motivated.”
The full schedule for the upcoming Paralympics will be made available soon. Competing in her fifth Games only fuels Forrest’s passion for wheelchair curling, reinforcing her status as a trailblazer in the sport.
