Canada's Para Swimmers Gear Up for California Showdown

Canada's Para swimming stars are getting their moment in the California sun.

Twenty elite Para swimmers will compete at the Para Pan Pacific Championships in Walnut, California from August 28-30. For many, this meet is more than competition. It's a crucial dress rehearsal for the 2028 LA Paralympic Games, giving them a chance to race outdoors in similar conditions.

Leading the charge are four team captains with impressive credentials. Danielle Dorris has won two Paralympic gold medals. Nicolas-Guy Turbide brings home two Paralympic medals and just snagged bronze at the 2026 Commonwealth Games. Abi Tripp is competing at her third Para Pan Pacs as a three-time Paralympian. Jagdev "Jack" Gill rounds out the leadership as a Commonwealth Games bronze medallist.

"In many ways, this is a dress rehearsal for racing outdoors at the LA Paralympic Games," said Tripp. "Being voted team captain is a privilege, and sharing this responsibility alongside Danielle, Jack and Nicolas-Guy makes it even more special."

The team blends seasoned veterans with exciting newcomers. Five swimmers are competing at their third Para Pan Pacs, while Ken Stroud and Tianna Asala are the newest national team members, earning their spots just this summer.

Turbide sees the California meet as an essential stepping stone. "The Para Pan Pacs are another big step on the road to LA, and it's the ideal spot to race under similar conditions to see what works," he said. His focus has returned to the 100-meter backstroke after several years away.

Why This Inspires

These athletes embody dedication at its finest. With two years until the LA 2028 Paralympic Games, every race matters. Every training session counts. This meet introduces a new format with multi-class preliminaries and finals, giving swimmers experience they won't get at World Championships or Paralympics.

Canada has a strong Para Pan Pacs history, finishing third overall in 2014 and fourth in 2018. This year's team is hungry to climb those rankings while building momentum for the home-continent Paralympic Games ahead.

All three days of racing will stream live on CBC Gem, with preliminary heats at 9 a.m. PT and finals at 5:30 p.m. PT. Fans can watch these incredible athletes push their limits and represent Canada with pride.