Companion of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: May 25, 2009
• Invested on: September 03, 2010

Chantal Petitclerc is a model of determination and excellence. At the age of 13, an accident left her with a damaged spinal column and at the age of 18, she took part in her first wheelchair race. Although she finished last, she fell in love with racing. Since then, she has won the most medals in Canadian track and field history, with a total of 21 medals from five Paralympic Games. She also holds four world records and five Paralympic records. A spokesperson for Défi sportif and a sought-after guest speaker, she motivates people to conquer adversity and contributes to the development of handisports. She is a source of inspiration all around the world. Known for her achievements and as a role model for others, she has won the Laureus World Sports Award and was the first female Paralympic athlete to win the Lou Marsh Award as Canada's Athlete of the Year.