Winnipegger Chantal Givens to compete in paratriathlon Paralympic debut in Rio

A Winnipeg athlete will be part of the Canadian team making history at the Paralympic Gamesin Rio in September.

Chantal Givens, 38, has been named to the paratriathlon team for Canada as the sport makes its Paralympic debut.

"The fact that I have the opportunity to represent Canada at the inaugural Paratriathlon in the Games makes this opportunity even more special," Givens said in a news release.

"I hope that this will inspire many youngsters and athletes alike to remove any limits they may have placed upon themselves."

Givens said she has always dreamed of competing in the Games but her dream almost slipped away last August when she fell from her bike, fracturing her shoulder blade, only weeks before a major event.

Givens' determination and support from her coach and doctors led to a speedy recovery.

"My dad told me that we appreciate things more the harder we work for them, and I can definitely say that I appreciate this opportunity," Givens said.

The Paralympic Games run Sept. 7-18.

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