QUICK FACTS
Name: Sonja Gaudet
Sport: Paralympic Wheelchair Curling
Nickname: The Brain – she invented a piece of equipment that changed her game and made her a winner.
Background: Got back into sports five years after becoming paralyzed in a horseback riding accident. Began with wheelchair basketball and tennis, but after trying curling, realized it was the sport she connected with most naturally.
Medals: Four golds: 2006 and 2010 Winter Paralympic Games, 2009 and 2011 World Championships.
HOW SHE DOES IT
With her self-designed "balance post". Made from an ergonomic, lightweight aluminum, it features a custom clamping system designed to her specs. It's attached to the left side of her wheelchair, and allows her to alter her physical delivery of the stone so that she can sit up straight, the most crucial ability in the act of curling. And one that puts her in the ideal position for accuracy and focus.
TRAINING REGIME
Eight months per year - Three ice sessions per week, two gym sessions per week. Four weeks away at international competitions. Forty days away at training camps and competitions.
"THE TINIEST DETAILS CAN LEAD TO THE MOST PROFOUND CHANGES IN YOUR PERFORMANCE." – S. Gaudet
SPONSOR SUPPORT
"The HBC Athlete Fund has been a huge support system for me as a National Paralympic Wheelchair Curler. The funds allowed me the time to focus on my training, which ultimately led to my teammates and I earning a gold medal on home soil at the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games!"
WHAT KEEPS HER GOING
The refusal to feel sorry for herself. The courage to face her weaknesses. The willingness to change everything in order to win.
"ALWAYS BELIEVE IN YOUR OWN ABILITY." – S.Gaudet
GETTING INVOLVED IN PARASPORT
