Ottawa hosts Canadian women's Wheelchair Basketball League national championship
Athletes of all abilities took to the court this weekend to compete in the Canadian Wheelchair Basketball League Championships at Collège La Cité in Ottawa.
- Sign up now for our daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
- The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App
The tournament offered a chance to showcase talent from across the country. Since its inception in 1990, Wheelchair Basketball Canada has championed this event, leaving a lasting legacy on and off the court, inspiring current, future and past Paralympians.
For Charlotte McElroy, wheelchair basketball is her passion.
"It's given me a really a sense of belonging with so many different disabilities and people like me," said McElroy, who was competing this weekend.
"Growing up and knowing that it's not weird and it's not bad to be disabled."
Athletes of all ages and backgrounds participated in the event.
"It's really helped me both in sport and out of sport. I mean, growing up in such a welcoming community with socially like-minded people has really helped me grow and become the person I am today," she said.
Hard-hitting athletes showcased their talent at the gold medal game, where Quebec and British Columbia tipped off for the top title.
"Sport really saved me in a way. After cancer, it wasn't easy," said Cindy Ouelette, who played for Quebec in the gold medal game.
For Ouelette, it’s a time to shine after years of playing.
"Wheelchair basketball was introduced to me by my physio. I got cancer when I was 12, so then at 15 and 16 years old, I started playing," said Ouelette.
With Ottawa as hosts, it’s a chance to prepare for a bigger event to come.
“We are hosting the World Championships in 2026 right here in Ottawa, so it's massive for us as an organization to get local capacity to help us host that event in two and a half short years," said Sean Liebich, program manager for the event.
Quebec won the tournament on Sunday, beating British Columbia 75-38.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Feels like mid-30s in parts of Canada, while other areas expecting snow
Anything is possible this week, as far as Canada's weather is concerned, with forecasts ranging from scorching heat in some parts of the country to rain and snow in others.
Independent stores and grocery alternatives see sales boost amid Loblaw boycott
As the month-long boycott of Loblaw-owned stores wears on, small independent food retailers and alternative grocery options say they're seeing a boost in traffic and sales.
1 dead, others injured after London-Singapore flight hit severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines says
One person has died aboard a London-Singapore flight that encountered severe turbulence, Singapore Airlines said Tuesday. The plane was diverted to Bangkok, where emergency crews rushed to help injured passengers amid stormy weather.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
How to check the Air Quality Health Index and assess your health risks
As we enter another wildfire season, Environment and Climate Change Canada is advising people to pay attention to air pollution levels and check the Air Quality Health Index – especially on smoky days.
Cardinal Lacroix cleared after investigation ordered by the Pope
The Vatican has announced that the investigation it commissioned into allegations of sexual touching against Cardinal Gerald Cyprien Lacroix did not confirm any act constituting misconduct or abuse on the part of the Vatican.
Trudeau making 'Team Canada' pitch in visit to Philadelphia
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is in Philadelphia today, on his first trip south of the border since his government launched a new 'Team Canada' charm offensive in the United States.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Final
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.
Katy Perry sings goodbye to 'American Idol'
Katy Perry said her goodbyes on 'American Idol' after seven seasons. On Sunday night’s live 'idol' season finale, a medley of Perry's hit songs were performed, including 'Teenage Dream,' 'Dark Horse' and 'California Gurls.'