New milestone reached in Eagle Para Skills Development Programme

The Eagle Para Skills Development Programme has reached an important milestone with the successful completion of its Level 3 stage, which now includes the addition of EcoAims Para Biathlon training.

Programme coordinator John Cowan expressed his gratitude to supporters who helped make the achievement possible.

“I would like to start off by thanking all of you for your support in developing the Eagle Para Skills Development Program,” Cowan said. “I am happy to share that we were able to complete the Level 3 stage of the Eagle Para programme to include EcoAims Para Biathlon.”

The training session, held several weekends ago at Camp Tawingo, highlighted the programme’s mission to create inclusive opportunities in winter sport. One participant in particular captured the spirit of the event.

“The smile on the face of this participant made the day priceless,” Cowan said. “A new challenge was presented to him and he was so keen to get out and work on his skiing skills.”

The young athlete’s enthusiasm was matched by the excitement of his parents, who watched him take on the new challenge. Because the participant is still developing the ability to transition off the ground depending on surface stability, the coaching team adapted the shooting position used in the session. Rather than the traditional prone or standing biathlon positions, they implemented a modified position inspired by approaches used at the Invictus Games.

The programme is also expanding its infrastructure. Cowan recently met with the park superintendent at Arrowhead Provincial Park to finalise plans for an EcoAims training range.

“On Tuesday I met with the park superintendent at Arrowhead Provincial Park to complete the EcoAims range,” Cowan said.

Preparatory work, including the removal of trees and scrub, is scheduled to take place before 1 April in accordance with Ontario Parks regulations regarding bird migration periods.

With continued community support and growing facilities, the Eagle Para Skills Development Programme is creating new pathways for athletes of all abilities to experience the challenge and enjoyment of winter sport.