Great moments in UVic's history: Olympians and Paralympians

UVic athletes excel on the world stage

For an athlete to reach a world championship or an Olympic or Paralympic podium, it takes commitment, dedicated training and sacrifice -- as well as the support of family and friends. So it is with great pride that the UVic community of fellow students, trainers, coaches, faculty and staff celebrate the sensational achievements of university athletes and alumni on the world stage. Whether on the rugby and field hockey fields, on the basketball court, on the track or in the water, their pursuit of excellence has resulted in a remarkable number of trips to national and international event podiums.

A total of 161 Vikes athletes, coaches and alumni have represented Canada at the Olympics, wining a total of 37 gold, 22 silver, and 9 bronze medals in Olympic and Paralympic competition. Vikes and Vikes alumni account for nearly a quarter of the Canadian medals at the 2012 London Olympic Games.

UVic athletes such as alpine skier and alumna Lauren Woolstencroft, who set a record for gold medals at a single Paralympic Games, and swimmer Michael Edgson, who is the most decorated Paralympic athlete in Canadian history, are role models for many.

The dominance of UVic’s rowing program is also evident not just by the number of Olympic medals – 96 – but by the standard of perseverance demonstrated by competitors such as Derek Porter, winner of two Olympic medals, and Silken Laumann, whose Olympic comeback is part of Canadian history.

Some champions are unforgettable, such as Stephanie Dixon, who despite being born with one leg started swimming at age 2, joined the national Paralympic team at 14 and with a sweep of Olympic medals has become one of the best swimmers in the world with a disability. Beyond the inspiring stories of hard work and triumph is another enduring legacy, as UVic athletes continue to contribute to Canadian sport as coaches, trainers, teachers and health professionals long after graduation.

Read the UVic London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic wrapup.