A Lambton County athlete will help lead Team Canada onto the world stage at the upcoming Paralympic Winter Games.
Forest native Tyler McGregor has been selected as one of Canada’s flag bearers for the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, alongside Para nordic skiing standout Natalie Wilkie of Salmon Arm, B.C., the Canadian Paralympic Committee announced Feb. 27.
McGregor, captain of Canada’s national Para ice hockey team and co-captain of the 2026 Canadian Paralympic Team, is heading into his fourth Paralympic Games. He has previously earned three Paralympic medals, including silver in 2018 and 2022 and bronze in 2014. He is also a three-time world champion, most recently winning gold with Team Canada in 2024.
“The Canadian flag represents resilience, courage, and unity, values that define the Paralympic Movement and Canada’s team,” McGregor said in a statement. “It’s the honour of a lifetime to carry Canada’s spirit onto the world stage.”
McGregor said the recognition reflects not only his athletic journey but also the support of his family, teammates, coaches and community throughout his career.
The honour places the Lambton County athlete among a select group of Canadian Paralympians chosen to symbolize the country at the Games, recognizing both athletic excellence and leadership within sport.
The Opening Ceremony is scheduled for March 6 in Verona, Italy. Due to the ceremony’s location away from the main competition clusters, Canadian athletes, including the flag bearers, will remain in their respective villages to prioritize competition preparation. McGregor and Wilkie will instead be recognized in team celebrations during the Games.
Competition begins March 7, when McGregor and Canada open their Para ice hockey tournament against Slovakia at the Milano Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena. Canada is aiming to return to the gold medal game, set for March 15.
The Milano Cortina Paralympic Winter Games run from March 6 to 15 and will feature approximately 50 Canadian athletes competing across multiple sports.
For McGregor, the moment carries particular significance for his hometown region, where he has long been recognized as one of Canada’s most accomplished Para athletes.
“I’m filled with pride, deep gratitude, and a tremendous respect for the opportunity to represent a team that truly reflects the very best of Canada,” he said.
