Para Nordic Star Wilkie Poised for Milano Cortina’s Next Step
Natalie Wilkie is preparing for her third Paralympic Games, set to take place in Milano Cortina in 2026. The 25-year-old Para Nordic skier has reflected on her journey, noting the transformation she experienced since her debut at PyeongChang 2018. At just 17, Wilkie stepped into the Paralympic arena, overwhelmed yet excited by the experience.
Natalie Wilkie’s Paralympic Journey
Wilkie, a native of Salmon Arm, British Columbia, has made a remarkable impact in her sport. Over her last two appearances—PyeongChang 2018 and Beijing 2022—she has earned seven medals in total: three gold, two silver, and two bronze. Her achievements include being recognized as the Best Paralympic Games Debut by a Female Athlete at the 2018 Canadian Paralympic Sport Awards.
Upcoming Role in Milano Cortina
As she heads to Milano Cortina, Wilkie will serve as one of Team Canada’s flag-bearers, joining Para hockey captain Tyler McGregor during the opening ceremony. This role is significant for her as she seeks to re-capture the sense of wonder she felt as a young competitor.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Wilkie’s journey to the Paralympics has not just been about competing but has also involved significant personal growth. After losing four fingers in a shop accident at the age of 15, she struggled with her identity and body image. Initially reluctant to embrace her disability, her perspective shifted markedly during the PyeongChang games.
- First Paralympic Games: PyeongChang 2018
- Medals: 7 (3 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze)
- Flag-Bearer: Milano Cortina 2026 with Tyler McGregor
Achievements and Motivation
Despite her past successes, Wilkie maintains a strong desire for growth. Recently, she secured six victories on the Para Biathlon World Cup circuit, earning the Crystal Globe as the overall champion in the women’s standing category. Her motivation stems from a desire for continuous self-improvement, stating that “self-improvement is constant—you’re always learning, always growing.”
Experiencing Transformation Through Sport
Wilkie attests that her Paralympic experiences have transformed her outlook on life. In an environment where disabilities are embraced, she finally found the confidence to publicly acknowledge her own. Such acceptance helped her realize the doors that Para sports have opened for her.
Community and Family Support
Growing up near a ski hill, Wilkie’s passion for skiing was cultivated early. Both of her sisters also enjoyed the sport, which has played a vital role in their identities. Despite facing challenges, including injuries, Wilkie has persevered and continues to pursue excellence in her athletic career.
Looking ahead to Milano Cortina 2026, Natalie Wilkie embodies a mixture of youthful exuberance and relentless ambition, a combination that has defined her journey thus far.
