Celebrating the Island’s Paralympians

Islanders are invited to join the provincial government and the sports community in a celebration to welcome home P.E.I.’s Paralympic athletes Mark Arendz and Billy Bridges.

On April 3, Arendz and Bridges will be at the Rodd Royalty Inn in Charlottetown to celebrate their victories with family, friends and hometown fans who supported and cheered on the Island’s Paralympic ambassadors.

Robert Mitchell, minister of health and wellness, said the men are “exceptional athletes and tremendous ambassadors” of P.E.I.

“Islanders are extremely proud of the hard work, determination and skill that Mark and Billy have exhibited. To show our support, I encourage all Islanders to come out on April 3 to honour these outstanding athletes.”

Arendz won six medals at the 2018 Paralympic Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, including a biathlon gold.

Bridges and Canada’s Paralympic hockey team took home the silver after a close competition.

The public is encouraged to come for 6 p.m., and the official ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Festivities will include refreshments, presentations to the athletes and an opportunity meet the Paralympians, where fans can ask them for their autograph, take a picture with them and hear firsthand about their experiences at the Paralympic Winter Games.

Everyone is welcome to share in the celebrations.