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Priscilla Gagné has represented Canada at three Paralympics including the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games placing 5th, marking her third consecutive (Rio '16; Tokyo '20 & Paris '24) appearance at the Paralympics. Not only did she win Silver at the Tokyo 2020 games, she was also Canada's flagbearer.
Gagné’s journey in judo began in 2010 after initially competing in wrestling. She switched to judo seeking more competitive opportunities, a decision that led her to become a leading figure in the sport. Her rise in the sport was marked by significant achievements, including her first major international success in 2015 when she won a bronze medal at a Para judo World Cup in Hungary. That same year, she secured a silver at the Toronto 2015 Parapan American Games.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including a major injury in 2011 where she broke both feet, and undergoing hip surgery in 2020, Gagné’s resolve remained unshaken. Her resilience was evident when she won a silver medal at a Para judo Grand Prix in Tokyo in December 2023, just two weeks after injuring her ankle, and added a bronze medal at a Grand Prix in Germany in February 2024.
She competes in the women’s 57 kg J1 category and is currently ranked fifth in the world and fourth in Paralympic qualification.
Born with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic eye disorder, Gagné has four degrees of peripheral vision and no central vision, categorizing her as blind. This has not deterred her from pursuing her dreams. She is a graduate of the evangelism program at Rhema Bible College in Oklahoma and Everest College’s addictions and community services worker program in Barrie, Ontario.
Gagné’s career is a testament to her determination and passion for judo. As she competes in Paris 2024, she not only represents Canada but also embodies the dreams and aspirations of many Canadians.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
9 Rossland Ave, Ottawa, ON, Canada, Ontario K2G 2K2
