Paralympic Qualifier Marathon coming to Port Elgin

Paralympian Josh Cassidy, from Bruce County, is about to return home bringing with him three other wheelchair athletes.  Born in Ottawa and raised in Burgoyne near Port Elgin the oldest of 10 children, Cassidy has always considered Bruce County home.

On Sunday, July 18th, Port Elgin will be hosting the four athletes who will be flying through the streets in an Paralympic Qualifier Marathon to determine who will be heading to the Paralympics in Tokyo in August.

Although final details are being finalized, the athletes will wheel their way west down Gustavus to north on Bruce Street, along Bruce to Biener Drive, east to Waterloo and south on Waterloo to Gustavus again – not once, not twice but 15 times in six minute laps to complete the 42km marathon. Residents have been advised of the road closures that will take place along the route from 7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Cassidy has amassed many records including being the 31-time Canadian Champion and is the Canadian record holder for the 5000M, 1000M and the marathon.

While recognized as an elite athlete, Cassidy is a man of many facets. He is also an artist, a musician and is well known for his motivational speaking.  His story started at a very young age when doctors told his parents that he would not likely survive because of cancer that left him partially paralyzed.  Not only did he survive but he excelled in life always believing that “adversity makes you stronger”.

photo by Saugeen Times

 

In 2019, Cassidy participated in the Rotary Huron Shore Run in Southampton, the annual fundraiser for the Saugeen Memorial Hospital.

(L) Hospital Foundation Exec. Dir. Tracy Murray and Josh Cassidy

 

Port Elgin Rotarians will be along the route for traffic control but volunteers are needed.  To help out, contact Mark Kraemer – mkraemer55@gmail.com