A Hub for Para Sport Excellence
As a legacy facility of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, the Richmond Olympic Oval was built to inspire participation and accessibility in sport for everyone. Today, it stands as a hub for para-sport activity, regularly welcoming organizations such as the BC Wheelchair Sports Association, BC Wheelchair Basketball Society, Wheelchair Basketball Canada and Wheelchair Rugby Canada. The Oval also supports programs training and events across a wide range of para-sports, including para-hockey, wheelchair rugby, table tennis, wheelchair basketball, para-climbing, and para-athletics.
Within the Oval High Performance (OvalHP) environment, Para athletes have access to facilities, training equipment, and sport science services that help them reach their potential. While many athletes utilize the space for independent training, others work directly with OvalHP coaches.
- Tara Llanes, a Paralympian in wheelchair basketball, completes technical practice on court and utilizes the Oval’s high performance training centre.
- Peter Isherwood, a Para Table Tennis athlete, trains in the Oval’s dedicated Table Tennis area with OvalHP Table Tennis Coach Khen Ng and utilizes the Oval facilities for strength and coniditioning work. Coach Khen also serves as a coach with Table Tennis Canada.
- Kate O’Brien, a Paralympic paracyclist, is currently training with OvalHP Climbing Coaches as she explores para-climbing and continues expanding her athletic pursuits.
Spotlight on Para Sport Fundraising Events
ParaTough Cup – Power of Para Sport in Action
Earlier this year, the Oval proudly hosted the ParaTough Cup Vancouver, an energetic fundraising event organized by the Canadian Paralympic Committee. The event brought together local businesses, community leaders, and athletes for a day of friendly competition in sitting volleyball, wheelchair rugby, and Para ice hockey. The event raised $90,000 to support Canada’s next generation of Para athletes.
The event shone a spotlight on the power of Para sport and the spirit of inclusion that drives the Paralympic movement.
(Read more → Canadian Paralympic Committee recap)
Hoopfest – A Night of Sport and Community
Hoopfest 2025, organized by the BC Wheelchair Basketball Society, had a record-breaking evening that raised over $65,000 to expand para-basketball programs and create more opportunities for athletes across British Columbia.
The event combined fast-paced wheelchair basketball action, community spirit, and inspiring athlete stories, showcasing how sport brings people together. The event took place on the same Oval hardwood courts used for international Wheelchair basketball competitions.
(Read more → BC Wheelchair Basketball recap)
Promoting Para sport Education Through ROX
Beyond hosting and training, the Richmond Olympic Experience (ROX) plays a vital role in introducing Para sport to the community. Through its partnership with BC Wheelchair Basketball, ROX helps promote awareness and understanding of adaptive sport.. By incorporating experiences such as wheelchair basketball and sitting volleyball into its corporate and education programs, ROX inspires participants of all ages to celebrate the Paralympic movement and appreciate the strength, skill, and inclusivity that define Para sports.
Building a Future Without Barriers
Through its partnerships, events, and athlete support, the Richmond Olympic Oval remains dedicated to advancing accessibility and excellence in sport. Whether hosting major competitions, offering training opportunities, or inspiring the next generation through education, the Oval continues to be a place where Para athletes can push boundaries and redefine what is possible.