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Nova Scotia Wrestler Champions Inclusion at Canada Games

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Shahad Alouch, 17, wears hijab while representing Nova Scotia in wrestling at the 2025 Canada Games, promoting diversity and breaking barriers.

Nova Scotia Athlete Brings Culture and Strength to National Stage

Seventeen-year-old Shahad Alouch of Chester, N.S., is making her mark at the 2025 Canada Summer Games in St. John’s, representing Nova Scotia in wrestling while proudly wearing her hijab. The games, running from Aug. 8 to 25, bring together the nation’s top young athletes for high-level competition.

A Journey from Syria to the Canada Games

Born in Syria and raised in Turkey, Alouch immigrated to Canada with her family in 2019. She first encountered wrestling in Grade 8, when a gym teacher introduced her to the sport. After initial setbacks, she returned to the mat with renewed determination, drawn by the discipline and resilience wrestling demands.

Competing While Wearing a Hijab

Wrestling in a hijab comes with unique challenges, as many referees and athletes are unfamiliar with its cultural and religious significance. In one match, an accidental tug left Alouch rattled. Now, she ensures officials and opponents understand the importance of her headscarf before bouts, creating a more respectful and informed competition environment.

Focused on More Than Winning

While she is eager to perform well, Alouch’s main goal is to inspire others from diverse backgrounds to pursue sports without fear of cultural barriers. “There’s space for all of us in sport,” she said. “I’m happy to be part of that message.” Her participation reflects a growing movement toward inclusion in Canadian athletics.

Wrestling Event Ahead

The wrestling events at the Canada Summer Games will take place from Aug. 21, where Alouch will face some of the country’s strongest young competitors. With determination, cultural pride, and a commitment to breaking barriers, she aims to leave a lasting impression both on and off the mat.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Abigail Strate Claims Historic Ski Jump Win in France

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Canada’s Abigail Strate makes history with gold at the Summer Grand Prix in Courchevel — the nation’s first ski jump victory since 2012.

Historic Gold for Canada’s Ski Jumping

Abigail Strate, a 24-year-old from Calgary, secured her first career international victory Sunday, winning gold at the Summer Grand Prix in Courchevel, France. Competing on the large HS135 hill, Strate scored 108.8 points, surpassing Germany’s Selina Freitag and Japan’s Nozomi Maruyama in a tightly contested event.

Breaking a 13-Year Drought

This triumph marks Canada’s first ski jump victory since Alexandra Pretorius claimed gold in Courchevel back in 2012. Strate’s achievement comes after a bronze medal finish the previous day, capping off a weekend of strong performances. “I’ve never heard the Canadian anthem played for me on the podium before,” Strate said, describing the moment as “overwhelming” and “incredible.”

Tight Margins in the Final Round

Strate edged Freitag by just 0.5 points, while Maruyama finished with 105.5. In the two-round competition, athletes advanced from group stages with scores reset before the final jumps — a format that heightened the suspense.

Canadian Team Results

Alongside Strate, fellow Canadians Alex Loutitt placed eighth and Nicole Maurer finished 17th, demonstrating the growing depth in the nation’s ski jumping program.

Understanding Summer Ski Jumping

Unlike winter events, the summer version uses porcelain tracks for the in-run and water-soaked plastic on the landing slope, allowing for year-round competition. Courchevel is a regular stop on the Summer Grand Prix circuit, attracting top athletes from around the globe.

Looking Ahead

Strate’s win sets the stage for the next Grand Prix stop in Wisla, Poland, starting Saturday. With momentum on her side, she will aim to build on this breakthrough performance ahead of the winter season and the 2026 Winter Olympics.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Shapovalov Exits Cincinnati Open After Loss to Nardi

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Canada’s Denis Shapovalov falls in a three-set battle to Italy’s Luca Nardi in the Cincinnati Open second round, ending his tournament run.

Canadian Star Faces Early Exit in Ohio

Denis Shapovalov’s campaign at the Cincinnati Open came to an abrupt end on Sunday, as the Richmond Hill, Ont., native suffered a second-round defeat to Italy’s Luca Nardi. The 24th seed fell 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4 in a closely fought match at the ATP Tour Masters 1000 event.

Match Highlights and Key Moments

The encounter stretched over two hours and 28 minutes, with Shapovalov taking the opening set in a tiebreak but struggling to maintain momentum. Nardi, an unseeded “lucky loser” entry into the main draw, capitalized on break-point opportunities in the second and third sets to secure the upset.

Venue and Tournament Stage

The match took place in Cincinnati, Ohio, as part of the prestigious ATP Masters 1000 series. The second-round clash drew considerable attention given Shapovalov’s recent performances on hard courts and Nardi’s underdog status.

Why the Result Matters

For Shapovalov, the loss marks a missed chance to build form ahead of the US Open later this month. For Nardi, the win is a significant career milestone, propelling him into the third round of one of tennis’s most competitive non-Grand Slam tournaments.

Next Steps for the Competitors

Following his victory, Nardi advances to face 16th-seeded Czech player Jakub Mensik in the next round. Shapovalov will now regroup and focus on preparations for the final Grand Slam of the season in New York.

How Fans Are Reacting

Canadian tennis fans expressed disappointment but also voiced optimism about Shapovalov’s chances at the US Open. Meanwhile, Nardi’s unexpected triumph has earned him praise as one of the event’s emerging storylines.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Alzheimer’s Hits Women Harder: Beyond Age, New Risk Factors

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Women represent nearly two-thirds of Alzheimer’s diagnoses. New research links hormonal milestones, menopause timing, and gaps in inclusive studies to risk.

From Loss to Urgency

After Sonia Elizabeth Cox’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis at 64, her family witnessed swift memory decline. Her daughter, Angeleta, became her primary caregiver, illustrating the devastating personal impact of dementia—but also the urgency to understand why women are disproportionately affected.

More Than Just Longevity

Statistics Canada shows women make up nearly two-thirds of people with Alzheimer’s in the country—not solely because they tend to live longer. Leading researchers are now looking at gender-specific biological and social factors that contribute to women’s higher Alzheimer’s rates. Age remains a factor, but it’s no longer the whole story.

Hormonal Milestones and Memory

Studies—including those using the UK Biobank—suggest that women with longer reproductive periods and one to three children may face lower Alzheimer’s risk. Conversely, women who experience premature (under 40) or early menopause (ages 40–44), or have ovaries removed before age 50, may face elevated risk. Estrogen treatments could offer neuroprotective benefits, according to experts.

Shaping Canadian Research Focus

Canadian scientists like Gillian Einstein and Natasha Rajah are championing research that includes sex, gender, and diversity. Rajah’s BHAMM study uses brain scans and blood markers to explore whether mid-life and menopause stages mark early Alzheimer’s signs. Their work aims to inform early detection and tailored care strategies.

Bridging Gaps, Nurturing Awareness

For families like the Coxes, this shift in understanding is deeply personal. Angeleta Cox chose not to undergo a hysterectomy affecting her hormonal trajectory after witnessing her mother’s condition—and now shares that insight across communities. “When it impacts women, it impacts families,” she says.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Danielle Dorris Claims 3rd World Record in 3 Days

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Canadian Para swimmer Danielle Dorris sets her third world record in three days at the Canadian short-course championships in Sherbrooke, Quebec.

Danielle Dorris Claims 3rd World Record in 3 Days

Record-breaking performance in Sherbrooke

Danielle Dorris, a 22-year-old Para swimmer from Moncton, N.B., captured her third world record in as many days on Saturday at the Canadian short-course championships in Sherbrooke, Quebec. She clocked 1:22.57 in the SM7 100-metre individual medley, surpassing the previous mark of 1:23.07 set by New Zealand’s Nikita Howarth in 2020.

Morning success sets the stage

Earlier in the day, Dorris had already set the Americas record in the preliminaries with a time of 1:23.50. The improvement in the evening final showcased her competitive edge and consistency in a high-pressure environment.

Consistent excellence in multiple events

This victory follows two other record-breaking swims: on Thursday, she shattered the S7 50m butterfly world record twice in the same day, and on Friday, she set a new S7 50m backstroke record with a time of 35.20. Known for her dominance in the 50m butterfly, Dorris already holds the long-course world record in that event, achieved at the Tokyo 2021 Paralympic Games.

Building momentum ahead of global competition

Speaking after her race, Dorris admitted the latest achievement came as a surprise. “I didn’t know exactly what the previous record was, so breaking it was an unexpected boost,” she said. The performance adds confidence ahead of next month’s World Para Swimming Championships in Singapore, set for September 21–27.

From youngest Paralympian to world leader

Born with bilateral radial dysplasia, a condition that led to underdeveloped arms, Dorris made her Paralympic debut at just 13 years old in Rio 2016, becoming Canada’s youngest Paralympic swimmer. She now boasts three Paralympic medals and six world championship medals, cementing her place among Canada’s most accomplished athletes.

Final challenge in Sherbrooke

Dorris will conclude her campaign at the Sherbrooke championships on Sunday in the 50m freestyle, aiming to cap an already historic week with yet another medal-worthy performance.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Two Japanese Boxers Die, Prompt OPBF Title Rule Change

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Two Japanese boxers died from brain injuries on the same Tokyo card, prompting the JBC to cut OPBF title bout length from 12 to 10 rounds.

Tragedy Strikes at Tokyo Boxing Card

At Tokyo’s Korakuen Hall on August 2, two 28-year-old Japanese boxers — Shigetoshi Kotari and Hiromasa Urakawa — sustained fatal brain injuries in separate bouts on the same event card. Kotari collapsed after a 12-round draw, while Urakawa suffered a knockout injury in another match. Both were hospitalised and later passed away. 

Immediate Safety Reforms Following the Loss

In reaction to these back-to-back tragedies, the Japan Boxing Commission (JBC) has announced that all Oriental and Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) title bouts will be reduced from 12 rounds to 10 rounds, effective immediately. 

Inside the Fatal Bouts

Kotari collapsed shortly after completing his 12-round draw with OPBF junior lightweight champion Yamato Hata and underwent emergency brain surgery for a subdural hematoma. He succumbed to his injuries six days later. Meanwhile, Urakawa was knocked out in the eighth round, suffered a similar brain injury, and died the following day despite medical intervention. 

Why the Rule Change Matters

The shift to 10-round title bouts aims to enhance boxer safety by reducing prolonged exposure to head trauma, a known factor in fight-related brain injuries. The JBC’s swift action underscores growing concerns about the physical toll of extended combat rounds. 

Impact on the Japanese Boxing Community

These back-to-back deaths have rocked Japan’s boxing world, reinforcing calls for comprehensive safety protocols and preventive measures. Boxing officials, fans, and international observers are closely watching how the new 10-round limit and other reforms will be implemented to protect athletes. 

What Comes Next for OPBF Bouts

Moving forward, all OPBF title fights will be contested over 10 rounds. The JBC may also review other critical protocols, such as pre-fight weigh-in processes, to further reduce risks. The boxing community remains vigilant in seeking further reforms following this harrowing double tragedy. 

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

U.S. Approves Canada’s $220M Light Tactical Vehicle Deal

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Canada gets U.S. approval to purchase $220M worth of light tactical vehicles, advancing army modernization amid ongoing defence procurement debates.

U.S. Clears $220M Military Vehicle Purchase for Canada

Green light from Washington

The U.S. State Department has approved Canada’s planned $220 million acquisition of light, off-road troop transport vehicles, marking another step in the country’s ongoing army modernization initiative. The deal, cleared Friday by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, authorizes the purchase from AM General, LLC, with production set in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and Mishawaka, Indiana.

Tied to broader military upgrades


This purchase is part of Canada’s Light Forces Enhancement Program, a project launched after the 2017 defence policy to strengthen the army’s mobility and combat readiness. The initiative aims to deliver between 150 and 300 tactical vehicles, complementing the 90 similar transports acquired last year for Canadian troops stationed in Latvia.

Political implications at home

The approval comes amid political friction in Ottawa, as the Liberal government had previously pledged to reduce reliance on U.S. defence procurement in favor of allied partnerships. The issue has been amplified by ongoing reviews of high-profile projects, including the $27.7-billion plan to acquire F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin.

Strategic importance

Defence officials argue the new vehicles will enhance Canada’s ability to respond to diverse operational environments, from NATO missions in Eastern Europe to domestic emergency support. Lt.-Gen. Mike Wright, Canada’s top army commander, has emphasized the urgent need for a more adaptable force structure, stating, “The army we have now is not the army we need for the future.”

A complex procurement landscape

While the U.S. approval advances this particular deal, Canada is also considering other major U.S. purchases, including P-8 surveillance aircraft and multiple rocket launcher systems. These acquisitions are unfolding against the backdrop of trade tensions between Ottawa and Washington, further complicating the defence procurement strategy.

Next steps

The latest authorization does not finalize the purchase but allows negotiations to proceed toward a formal contract. Delivery timelines and deployment plans are expected to be outlined once the agreement is signed, with the vehicles anticipated to serve both domestic and overseas missions.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire 

U.S. Lawmakers Urge Ottawa to Scrap Online Streaming Act

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Eighteen U.S. Republicans call Canada’s Online Streaming Act discriminatory, pushing for repeal amid tense trade talks.

U.S. Pushback Over Canadian Streaming Rules

Eighteen Republican members of the U.S. Congress are calling on Canada to repeal its Online Streaming Act, a law requiring foreign streaming services to contribute 5% of their Canadian revenues to local content creation. They argue the policy unfairly targets American companies and should be dropped as part of ongoing trade negotiations.

Letter Targets Digital Policy in Trade Context

In a July 31 letter obtained by CBC News, the lawmakers urged U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to prioritise dismantling what they call “digital trade irritants.” They highlighted the U.S. streaming industry’s $70 billion USD video revenue and $14.3 billion USD music revenue in 2023 as proof of its economic importance.

Concerns Over Cross-Border Competition

The Republicans claim that the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s (CRTC) rules disadvantage U.S. platforms while benefiting domestic creators. Many Canadian content funds exclude foreign streamers, meaning companies like Netflix or Disney+ contribute without direct access to subsidies. Critics say this could discourage investment and strain cross-border digital trade.

Ottawa’s Pattern of Digital Policy Reversals

The appeal comes weeks after Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government scrapped Canada’s digital services tax, a move prompted by pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who briefly halted trade talks over the issue. Analysts note a trend of reversing digital policies introduced under former prime minister Justin Trudeau, raising expectations that the Online Streaming Act could also be reconsidered.

Industry and Legal Perspectives

Michael Geist, Canada Research Chair in internet and e-commerce law at the University of Ottawa, says U.S. companies likely view the government’s recent reversals as an opening. He adds that the legislation’s strict Canadian content definitions can exclude even fully Canadian-produced projects if they don’t meet CRTC criteria, a point of contention for both foreign and domestic creators.

Uncertain Path Forward in Trade Talks

Canada-U.S. trade negotiations have yet to meet self-imposed deadlines, with tensions heightened by a 35% tariff imposed by Washington on goods deemed non-compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement. Whether Ottawa will yield on the Online Streaming Act remains unclear, but observers warn that any policy change will have consequences for Canada’s cultural industries and its bargaining position at the trade table.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Hunter, Small Secure AFC Toronto’s 2-1 Victory in NSL

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AFC Toronto tops Montreal Roses 2-1 as Hunter and Small score first-half goals, extending their NSL lead to six points.

Hunter, Small Lead AFC Toronto Past Montreal Roses 2-1

Strong Start Secures the Lead

AFC Toronto strengthened their grip on the Northern Super League’s top spot with a 2-1 victory over Montreal Roses FC on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at Saputo Stadium in Montreal. The win lifts Toronto to 31 points, six ahead of second-place Montreal.

Key Goals Before Halftime

Nikayla Small opened the scoring in the 24th minute, finishing a precise through ball from Sarah Stratigakis on a swift counterattack. Just 13 minutes later, 17-year-old Kaylee Hunter unleashed a powerful strike from outside the penalty area, netting her ninth goal of the season and doubling Toronto’s advantage.

Montreal’s Response Falls Short

Montreal’s Stephanie Hill narrowed the deficit in first-half stoppage time, converting a Latifah Abdu corner. Despite increased second-half pressure, the Roses couldn’t find an equalizer. Montreal now sits at 25 points with one game in hand.

League Standings Impact

The result marks Toronto’s 10th win of the season and evens the season series at two wins apiece between the clubs. Their final regular-season clash is set for October 18 in Toronto, a matchup that could have major playoff implications.

Elsewhere in the League

In Ottawa, Jackie Sawicki’s 77th-minute strike earned Calgary Wild FC a 1-0 victory over Ottawa Rapid FC, keeping Calgary in fifth place while Ottawa holds third. Meanwhile, Halifax Tides and Vancouver Rise battled to a scoreless draw in Halifax, with goalkeepers Anika Toth and Morgan McAslan each securing clean sheets.

What’s Next

Toronto will aim to maintain their lead as the NSL heads into its final stretch, while Montreal looks to close the gap with their game in hand. Both sides remain strong contenders for the championship heading into the fall.

© 2025 Mapple News Wire

Auger-Aliassime, Diallo shine at Cincinnati Open

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Felix Auger-Aliassime and Gabriel Diallo advance to round three in Cincinnati; Leylah Fernandez exits, Victoria Mboko withdraws.

Canadians Impress in Cincinnati

Felix Auger-Aliassime and Gabriel Diallo have both advanced to the third round of the Cincinnati Open in men’s singles, marking a strong showing for Canada on Saturday. The tournament, part of the ATP Masters 1000 series, saw the pair overcome their opponents in straight sets, while Leylah Fernandez exited the women’s draw.

Strong Wins for Auger-Aliassime and Diallo

Auger-Aliassime, seeded 23rd, secured a 6-2, 7-6(3) victory over Argentina’s Tomas Martin Etcheverry. The 25-year-old from Montreal delivered 14 aces and 30 winners, saving all four break points he faced. It was his first win since Wimbledon, breaking a short losing streak.

Fellow Montrealer Gabriel Diallo, seeded 30th, defeated Argentina’s Sebastian Baez 7-5, 6-4. The 24-year-old struck nine aces and capitalized on four break opportunities, continuing his solid form after reaching the third round in Toronto last week.

Next Match Challenges

Diallo will now face world No. 1 Jannik Sinner of Italy, while Auger-Aliassime meets France’s Arthur Rinderknech. Both Canadians received byes into the second round, helping them conserve energy ahead of these key matches.

Fernandez Falls in Straight Sets

Leylah Fernandez, seeded 21st, was eliminated after a 6-3, 6-3 loss to Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro. The Laval, Que., native struggled to convert opportunities, extending her losing streak to two matches since winning the D.C. Open in July.

Doubles Success for Dabrowski

In women’s doubles, Ottawa’s Gabriela Dabrowski and New Zealand partner Erin Routliffe, seeded second, opened with a 7-5, 7-5 win over Taiwan’s Hsieh Su-Wei and Japan’s Ena Shibahara. The duo’s consistent play has them among the favorites for the title.

Mboko Withdraws to Rest Injury

Victoria Mboko, fresh off her National Bank Open women’s singles title, withdrew from Cincinnati due to a right wrist injury. The 18-year-old, now ranked 24th in the world, is expected to return for the U.S. Open later this month, where she will be seeded in a Grand Slam for the first time.

 © 2025 Mapple News Wire

 

Canada Games Hall Welcomes Olympians, Pioneers

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Diana Matheson, Lennox Lewis and Indigenous pioneers Sharon & Shirley Firth hit Canada Games Hall of Honour in St. John’s, shaping Olympic pathways.

Honourees Unite Sport Generations

In a ceremonious welcome on August 8, 2025, at St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, the Canada Games Hall of Honour welcomed six distinguished figures — including Olympians Diana Matheson, Lennox Lewis, and indigenous trailblazers Sharon and Shirley Firth — as well as builder Ajay Patel and distinguished alumna Jennifer Bishop. The event spotlights their shared journey from Canada Games athletes to leaders on the world stage.

Early Steps to Olympic Glory

Diana Matheson’s Canada Games debut for Team Ontario in 2001 proved a launchpad. Within two years, she joined the senior national team and began a career that would yield Olympic bronze and national acclaim in women’s soccer.

Cross-Country Icons Break Barriers

Twin sisters Sharon and Shirley Firth, Canada Games competitors in the early 1970s, went on to become Canada’s first Indigenous women to represent the nation in Olympic cross-country skiing — competing in four consecutive Winter Games and forging a path for future generations.

From Amateur Rings to Olympic Gold

Lennox Lewis captured gold as a super-heavyweight boxer at the 1988 Olympics, but his ascent began two years earlier with a Canada Games gold for Ontario. He credits the experience with instilling the discipline and focus that shaped his career.

Recognition of Leadership and Service

Ajay Patel, celebrated for his leadership roles across six Canada Games as Mission Staff and Chef de Mission for Team British Columbia, and Jennifer Bishop, athlete-turned-sport governance leader, received honours for their contributions to the Canada Games community.

The Hall’s Role in National Sport Identity

Established in 2007, the Canada Games Hall of Honour recognises alumni who have not only excelled in competition but also contributed to the growth and spirit of the Canada Games Movement. The 2025 induction reaffirms the Games’ enduring influence on the country’s sporting legacy.

 © 2025 Mapple News Wire

Canada Games Ignite with Thrilling St. John’s Opening

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St. John’s welcomes over 2,000 young athletes as the 2025 Canada Games kick off with a sold-out, high-energy opening ceremony.

A Grand Welcome to St. John’s

The 2025 Canada Games began in St. John’s with an electric opening ceremony at a sold-out Mary Brown’s Centre, where thousands of spectators roared in celebration of more than 2,000 young athletes from across Canada. The loudest cheers were reserved for the host team, Newfoundland and Labrador, who entered to the upbeat rhythm of Great Big Sea’s Ordinary Day.

A Celebration of Culture and Sport

Canada Games Host Society CEO Karen Sherriffs said the ceremony showcased “the richness of our local culture” while setting the tone for 17 days of national competition. She described it as a magical moment when athletes from every province and territory became the centre of attention, united by the shared pride of representing their communities.

Powerful Words from Sporting Legends

Two-time Olympic champion and Canada Games Council Chair Catriona Le May Doan addressed the athletes, urging them to savour the pride of competition and use it to fuel their performance. For her, the opening ceremony marks both a culmination of years of training and the start of a new chapter in each athlete’s journey.

Local Heroes Take the Spotlight

The ceremony reached its peak when local Paralympic swimming champion Katarina Roxon lit the Canada Games cauldron, officially signalling the start of the competition. Among the competitors is Para-swimmer and track athlete Gavin Baggs, representing Newfoundland and Labrador in eight events. Baggs said the Games are a vital platform for young talent to demonstrate skill, dedication, and perseverance.

A City United in Support

St. John’s Mayor Danny Breen expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting the camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed at previous Games. An avid sports fan himself, Breen said he intends to attend as many events as possible to witness the energy and determination that define the Canada Games spirit.

The Competition Ahead

Over the next 17 days, athletes will compete in the country’s largest multi-sport event, showcasing talent in disciplines from swimming to softball. For those unable to attend in person, CBC Sports is broadcasting live coverage through CBCSports.ca, CBC Gem, and YouTube, bringing the excitement from Newfoundland and Labrador to audiences nationwide.

 © 2025 Mapple News Wire