Inspired by the success of Canada’s female Olympic athletes, the country’s youngest Paralympic swimmer is getting ready to compete next month in Rio.
Born with only part of her arms, 13-year-old Danielle Dorris of Moncton is a powerhouse in the pool.
“I am just soaking in all the good vibes,” Danielle said.
At next month’s Paralympic Games, Danielle will be swimming in the same pool as Canada’s Olympic sweetheart, multiple medal winner Penny Oleksiak.
“It’s quite exciting because she is a big inspiration to all of us especially me because she is close to my age,” Danielle said.
READ MORE: Penny Oleksiak makes history after winning gold in the 100-metre freestyle
However, it’s someone much closer in age who Danielle hopes to impress in the pool — her twin sister and occasional rival, Roxanne.
Roxanne has been watching Danielle since she started swimming competitively in Grade 3.
“I hope she kinda has fun and if she doesn’t win that’s fine cause she is 13 and she gets to go to this monumental event,” Roxanne said.
Danielle is going into her first Paralympic competition as a bit of an underdog — she’s ranked 11th at the games. But, at only 13, she already holds three national records.
She left Moncton on Wednesday for two weeks of training in Toronto before heading to Rio in early September.
“Just my heart is full of pride watching her and hope she does her best,” said Danielle’s mother, Wanda.
READ MORE: Team Canada ‘concerned’ Paralympics could face funding cuts amid Rio budget crisis
Mom, dad and sister Roxanne will be poolside in Rio, cheering on Danielle as she competes in the biggest races of her young life.
The Paralympics Games are being held in Rio from September 7-18th.
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