Politicians are united in their admiration for North Okanagan athletes who took on the world.
The Regional District of North Okanagan board has unanimously agreed to send congratulation letters to Paralympic gold medalists Ina Forrest, Sonja Gaudet and Josh Dueck, as well as Kevin Hill and Justin Dorey, who both performed in the Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
“They have done a wonderful job presenting themselves to the world and they live here,” said director Mike Macnabb.
“We should acknowledge their skills and dedication and be very proud of them.”
Forrest, a Spallumcheen resident, and Gaudet, who lives in the BX, won gold in wheelchair curling at the Parlaympics while Vernon’s Dueck took gold and silver in sit-ski competitions.
In the Winter Olympics, Hill, a Vernon resident, finished eighth in snowboard cross, while Dorey, also from Vernon, placed 12th in the men’s ski halfpipe.
“It’s amazing that a regional district this size can produce this many Olympians and Paralympians,” said director Mary-Jo O’Keefe.
“I was in Australia during the Olympics and Vernon got a lot of exposure.”
RDNO staff are investigating options for a possible reception for the local athletes.
