By Corey Fischer

Vernon Athlete Ready To Represent Canada

Feb 21, 2018 | 6:00 PM

Curt Minard calls it an extreme honour.

The Vernon athlete has been chosen for Canada’s team for the Paralympic Games next month in South Korea.

The 38 year old Minard will compete in snowboard cross and banked slalom, and thinks he can win a medal.

“Anytime you get the opportunity to represent Canada, it’s an extreme honour. It was a hard two year push, really, to say the least, and I just can’t believe that it’s here, and I was selected,” Minard told CJIB News.

Minard will leave for PyeongChang March 2, with his competitions on March 12 and 16.

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Listen to Curt Minard in conversation with Pete McIntyre:

“I think I’ve proven this year that I can win medals. I’ve podiumed at two of the three XBX races this year, so I have the confidence now I think.”

Minard lost his left hand and suffered nerve damage in his right hand in an industrial accident ten years ago.

“Snowboard cross is probably my specialty. I finished the year second overall on the World Cup Circuit, so I feel that’s more the course that I’m able to attack.”

Minard is a BC Hydro employee and motivational speaker.

He is originally from Saskatchewan, and has lived in Vernon since 2010.

You can find out more about Curt on his website here.

Photo courtesy of Facebook

by Corey Fischer