Canada’s Karen O’Neill receives prestigious honour

“Karen is a wonderful leader, extremely well-respected in the international sports community, and a tireless advocate for inclusion and Paralympic sport."

The achievements and leadership of Canadian Paralympic Committee’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Karen O’Neill have not gone unnoticed, as she was selected to receive the Sports Executive of the Year award by Sports Media Canada.

O’Neill, who took on her role as CEO in 2013, oversaw a year that saw Team Canada complete a successful 2018 Paralympic Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea. The nation finished with 28 medals including eight golds.

“A huge congratulations to Karen and all of the honourees on this outstanding recognition,” said Marc-Andre Fabien, president, Canadian Paralympic Committee. “Karen is a wonderful leader, extremely well-respected in the international sports community, and a tireless advocate for inclusion and Paralympic sport. The Paralympic Movement in Canada has advanced immensely under her leadership, and this year has already been one to celebrate thanks to Canada’s best-ever Paralympic Winter Games in PyeongChang.

"Karen is so well-deserving of this award, but ever modest, she would most certainly want this recognition to be shared amongst the entire organisation, and it is reflective of the great work of the entire staff and all of our sport members and partners.”

The annual awards recognises the great work of members of the Canadian sports media and sports community. The 2018 Sports Media Canada Achievement Awards will be presented in Toronto on 15 November.