Parksville-Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell crosses the finish line 1st in the 200m at the London 2012 Paralympics. (The Canadian Press)

By Alex Rawnsley

Call to the Hall

Local MLA Michelle Stilwell to be inducted into Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame

Jul 10, 2019 | 9:37 AM

NANAIMO – Following a Paralympic career spanning almost 20 years and four Olympiads, Parksville-Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell is being recognized for her contributions to wheelchair sport in Canada.

In early November, Stilwell will join six other Manitoba-born athletes and builders in being inducted to the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame during their 40th anniversary celebrations.

“It’s such a huge honour to be recognized from my home province where my sporting career started and where most of my love for sport was really instilled in me,” Stilwell said.

A gifted athlete, Stilwell burst onto the national scene as a member of Canada’s womens wheelchair basketball team at the Sydney 2000 Paralympics, winning gold by defeating the host nation, Australia.

Following a break to start a family, Stilwell returned to action and competed at three consecutive Paralympics in Beijing, London and Rio as part of Canada’s track and field team. She added five gold medals and one silver in the 100m, 200m and 400m disciplines.

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“After four games, they all hold something special in my heart,” she said.

“Sydney 2000 was the first time I competed for Canada and got to wear the Maple Leaf and achieve a goal I’d worked on so hard with 11 other amazing athletes. At the same time, switching to an individual sport and being able to hear O’Canada being played for me was pretty incredible.” _{Michelle Stilwell}

Since retirement, Stilwell has switched her focus from the track to the Legislature. Currently in her second team as MLA for Parksville-Qualicum, Stilwell also sits on the International Paralympic Finance and Audit Committee.

“When time allows I’d enjoy getting back into coaching. I’m fortunate to be able to mentor some young athletes, give them some tips and advice to help them along,.”

Stilwell will join good friend and fellow Olympian Jon Montgomery as part of the Hall’s 40th anniversary class. Montgomery rose to fame at Vancouver 2010, winning gold in mens skeleton and then parading through Whistler with a pitcher of beer.

Fellow inductees include Charles Baksh (Cricket), Susanne Dandenault (Athletics/Weighlifting), Don Hornby (Rowing, Builder), Maureen Orchard (Basketball/Wheelchair Basketball, Builder) and Hector Vergara (Soccer, Builder).

In addition the 1987/1988/1989 Brandon University Bobcats basketball teams will also be recognized.

The induction ceremony takes place in Winnipeg on Nov. 2.

alex.rawnsley@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alexrawnsley