A Worthwhile Drive from Yellowknife

Marcus Wedawin is one of four athletes competing at the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games Medicine Hat 2026, and he has two supporters in town to cheer him on.

His mother Shannon and sister Maiya made the 18 hour drive to Medicine Hat in two days – just in time to watch Marcus compete in swimming at the Big Marble Go Centre.

“I’m a proud mom, for sure,” said Shannon. “It makes me so happy. I’m very, very proud of him and all his hard work. We’re all excited. His sister’s excited too.”

The long drive to Medicine Hat meant Shannon and Maiya missed the Opening Ceremony, where Marcus was momentarily in the spotlight alongside TSN personality Jesse Pollock – a moment Marcus described as “terrifying,” despite performing well on camera.

By the first day of competition, his nerves had calmed, and he was focused on the rest of the week. Here’s how he was feeling:

“Good – really good,” Marcus said. “I feel warmed up and ready for the next few days.”

And he was right. Marcus would find the podium later in the week thanks to all of his preparation.

Having participated in swimming since he was a child, Marcus wrote in his online profile that he has found something exceptional in the Special Olympics program.

“There is no fear of failure,” wrote Marcus. “Everyone is encouraging one another to do their best.”

Marcus is part of the reason that the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games are such a safe and supportive environment. When asked about his favourite part of being in Medicine Hat, he said: “Seeing other athletes, and seeing them trying their best.”

Swimming continues until the final day of the Games in Medicine Hat, wrapping up on Saturday, Aug. 15.

The schedule for all competition and livestream links can be found online: socmedhat2026.ca

— story by Peter Reimer, Special Olympics Canada Summer Games

Shannon and Maiya Wedawin at Big Marble Go Centre