Paralympic champion Ina Forrest earns her place in the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame, celebrating her inspiring career and impact on disability sport.
Ina Forrest Rolls Into the Hall of Fame
Canadian wheelchair curling legend Ina Forrest has added another remarkable milestone to her already glittering career. The four-time Paralympian and six-time World Championship medalist is being inducted into the Canadian Disability Hall of Fame this Thursday, Oct. 9, in Toronto.
It’s another proud moment for the Spallumcheen athlete whose journey has inspired athletes across the country and beyond.
Honouring Champions Who Inspire Change
The Hall of Fame, created by the Canadian Foundation for Physically Disabled Persons, celebrates individuals who not only achieve greatness but also uplift the disability community.
“These inductees are recognized for their outstanding accomplishments and for making life better for people with disabilities,” the foundation shared. “They’ve become powerful advocates and lasting change-makers in Canada and around the world.”
Forrest is being recognized in the Athlete category, and it’s easy to see why.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Since joining Canada’s National Wheelchair Curling Team in 2007, Forrest has represented the maple leaf on the world stage with unmatched determination.
She’s competed in four Paralympic Games and 15 World Championships, helping Canada capture an impressive 10 international medals — including two Paralympic golds and three World titles.
Her contributions extend to the national level too. Competing for Team B.C., she has earned four medals at Canadian championships.
Beyond the Ice: A Life of Leadership and Giving
Forrest’s impact reaches far beyond competition. After being named Top Canadian Female Athlete following the 2014 Sochi Paralympics, she was later inducted into the Canadian Curling Hall of Fame in 2016.
At the 2022 Beijing Paralympics, she carried Canada’s flag during the Opening Ceremonies — a fitting tribute to her leadership and spirit.
Off the ice, Forrest has supported Plan International since the 1980s and continues to advocate for inclusion as part of the Canadian Paralympic Committee Athlete Council.
Joining an Elite Class
This year’s other inductees include:
- Dr. Tom Chau, a leading biomedical engineer and researcher at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, whose groundbreaking work helps children with severe physical challenges communicate.
- Kevin J. Collins, CEO of Easter Seals Ontario, who has dedicated his life to empowering children and youth with physical disabilities.
“The 2025 inductees have set extraordinary standards through their achievements and contributions,” said David Crombie, chair of the Hall of Fame Selection Board. “Their work continues to inspire progress and inclusion across Canada.”
A Legacy of Inspiration
The Canadian Disability Hall of Fame stands as the only institution in the country that permanently celebrates individuals with disabilities — and those who champion them.
Forrest, Chau, and Collins will officially join the elite roster of 129 inductees during the 32nd Annual Induction Luncheon at Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York Hotel, presented by CIBC.
Adding to B.C.’s pride, Forrest’s former teammate Sonja Gaudet was also recently honoured — inducted into the Canadian Paralympic Hall of Fame just one day prior.
From Paralympic podiums to the Hall of Fame, Ina Forrest’s journey continues to shine as a symbol of excellence, resilience, and advocacy — a true Canadian champion both on and off the ice.
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