Sat Sep 07 09:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Halifax Athlete Makes Paralympic Debut After Unexpected Discovery

Halifax, Nova Scotia – Katie Pegg, a 20-year-old student at Saint Mary’s University, has defied the odds and competed at the Paralympic Games in Paris. Just a year ago, the shotput athlete had no idea she was eligible for parasport.

Pegg, who was born with a missing radial bone in her right arm, joined the university’s track and field team and excelled. Her coach, Jodi Langley, recognized her potential and informed her that she met the criteria for competing in a category for athletes with upper-limb deficiencies.

“Once I found out I could compete… I was like, I’m doing this,” Pegg said.

With the support of the Canadian Sport Institute Atlantic, Pegg trained rigorously and earned a spot on the Canadian Paralympic Team. She placed seventh in the F46 shotput event at the Games, a remarkable achievement considering her late start.

Evan MacInnis, director of performance pathways at the institute, believes Pegg’s success highlights the importance of awareness and support for parasport.

“Sometimes it’s knowing that an event like this exists,” he said. “Anyone can find a home.”

While there were no other Nova Scotia-born athletes at this year’s Paralympics, MacInnis believes increased awareness could drive more participation.

Sport Nova Scotia has created an online portal listing parasport programs across the province to help parents and athletes find opportunities.

Pegg’s journey inspires aspiring para-athletes to pursue their dreams, regardless of when they discover their abilities.

“At the end of the day, it’s your story, it’s yours to write, and don’t let anyone else tell you what you can and can’t do,” she said.

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