Alexandre Hayward felt confident as he rode through the streets of Ronse, Belgium, knowing he was prepared for the time trial ahead. Despite a sore back and a restless night, the New Brunswicker was ready for the challenge. Hayward, 28, expressed his belief in his chances of winning, given his excellent form and preparation leading up to the event.
His determination paid off as he clinched the gold medal in the men’s C3 Para cycling world championships time trial. Reflecting on his victory, Hayward described the experience as “extremely cool” and struggled to find the right words to express his emotions.
The 23.2-kilometer time trial, completed in just 30 minutes and six seconds, marked the culmination of three years of dedicated training, which began during the COVID-19 lockdown when he first took up Para cycling. Despite encountering challenges along the way, Hayward’s journey to the world title originated from a life-changing spinal cord injury he suffered during a hockey game in 2012.
Overcoming initial doubts and fears of never playing sports again, Hayward gradually regained his mobility through rehabilitation. His path led him to Para cycling, where he found a renewed sense of freedom and joy in competing without special adaptations for his injury.
Following his bronze medal win at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, Hayward relocated to Bromont, Que., to train full-time with Cycling Canada’s Paralympic team. Under the guidance of lead coach Sébastien Travers, Hayward’s skills and strategic approach to cycling evolved, propelling him towards success.
Despite outward appearances as an able-bodied athlete, Hayward continues to face challenges stemming from his injury. However, he remains grateful for his progress and the opportunities to challenge perceptions about disabilities and Para athletes. Hayward’s achievements extend beyond the sporting arena, as he recently fulfilled his dream of purchasing a house in New Brunswick and embarking on a new career as a mechanical engineer.
Looking ahead to the upcoming race season in 2026, Hayward plans to participate in local events and establish roots in his hometown of Quispamsis. As he embraces a newfound stability and work-life balance, Hayward humorously contemplates mundane yet significant decisions, like choosing the color for his kitchen—a far cry from the intense competition he thrives in.