Background:

Joan started skiing in 2002 when she was invited to try a sled that Randy Schellenburg had designed and made.  Joan enjoyed it so much that she kept on with the sport.  There is something about being out on the snow which is impossible to get to in that way with a wheelchair.  Kaspar Wirz showed up Joan’s club that year and invited her to race in the World Cup, which was staged in Quebec. Joan agreed even though she had very little past competition experience in any sport.  Two friends of Joan’s agreed to help her train for the event which was only three months away.  One skied with her (Don Riemer) and the other helped with strength training (Cindy Garvin).  Cindy is still her strength training coach today and is doing a wonderful job.  Joan did not do as well as she wanted in Quebec that year, but was instantly hooked on racing, and is now determined to continue.  Joan decided that she would attempt to make it to the 2010 Paralympics since they would be in Canada.  A Pretty lofty goal, but she is still on track five years later! 

2006-07 Results:

2007 – Ski Nationals, Mont. Ste. Anne, Que.: 2

2007 – Ski Nationals, Mont. Ste. Anne, Que.: 2

2007 – IPC World Cup, Mt. Washington, B.C.: 2 (10km)

2007 – IPC World Cup, Mt. Washington, B.C.: 2 (Sprint)

2006 – Haywood NorAm, Vernon, B.C.: 2

2006 – Haywood NorAm, Canmore, Alta.: 3

2005-06 Results:

Three gold medals at Canadian Championships

Ontario Paralympic Championships Two Golds