April 9/11 13:20 pm - Chantal Petitclerc to Compete in Para-cycling at Défi Sportif

Posted by Editoress on 04/9/11
 

Chantal Petitclerc has discovered a new passion and begun a new adventure in hand cycling. The winner of 21 Paralympic medals, including 14 gold, will make her first official laps in competition at the 28th Para-Athlete Challenge, on April 29th and 30th.

"The hand cycle is an exhilarating sport that allows me once again to push my limits. For now, I decided to devote myself more to this sport," said the native of Saint-Marc-des-Carrières, Quebec. "In addition, this discipline gives me the chance to work with [national para-cycling coach] Eric Van den Eynde, an important figure in Canadian cycling scene ... I really look forward to my first official race at the Défi sportif!"

"We are pleased to have the presence of Chantal again this year, and this time not only as a [spokesperson], but also as an athlete," said Maxime Gagnon, head of the Défi sportif AlterGo. "Chantal is a model of determination and self-transcendence, and we consider ourselves fortunate to witness her debut in a new sport."

Chantal Petitclerc will compete in the Time Trial on Friday, April 29th and the Road Race Saturday, April 30th at 10:30 am. Para-cycling competitions, like those of para-athletics, will once again be staged at the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve on Île Notre Dame.

In addition, organizers expect the Défi sportif to attract a record number of athletes in para-cycling competition.

"This year we already have many of the best para-cyclists the world," said Maxime Gagnon. "We will include the Canadian national team, in addition to the world power U.S. national team. We count on thirty elite athletes already."

For a schedule of all the disciplines presented at the 28th edition of the Défi sportif, including para-cycling competitions, visit www.defisportif.com.