Calgary Paralympian stars in emotional Super Bowl ad
A Paralympic alpine skier from Calgary was featured in a highprofile TV spot during Sunday’s Super Bowl.
The Toyota ad, titled “Good Odds,” didn’t feature a vehicle — a first for the company. The ad was a 60-second story about Lauren Woolstencroft’s life and the odds she overcame to become a Paralympian. Woolstencroft has won eight gold medals, a silver medal and a bronze medal during three Paralympic Games.
“If I could describe my journey in the Paralympic Games in one word, I would say determination,” Woolstencroft said in a news release.
“It’s been a wonderful experience partnering with Toyota on this global platform to tell my story of overcoming odds. I hope that my participation will encourage and inspire others around the world to pursue their passions, and reach for their own personal best.”
Woolstencroft was born missing her left arm below the elbow, as well as both legs below the knees. She began skiing at the age of four.
The ad spot is part of a global Toyota campaign titled “Start Your Impossible” leading up to the Paralympic and Olympic Games.
Cyril Dimitris, vice-president of sales and marketing for Toyota Canada, said Woolstencroft’s story is a “perfect example” of sports inspiring people to overcome challenges “and make dreams come true.”
“To be placed in a lead position during one of the most watched broadcasts one Earth … you don’t get much bigger than that,” Dimitris said.
“We’re happy for Lauren and we’re proud to bring this amazing Canadian’s story to the world.”
Wools ten croft retired from competition after the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games, after becoming the first Canadian winter Para ly mp ian to win five gold medals at a single Games.