Katie Cosgriffe secured a silver medal in the women’s 100-meter backstroke, claiming Canada’s final medal at the Para swimming world championships in Singapore. This marked Cosgriffe’s second medal of the championships, following her earlier bronze in the 100-meter butterfly event. Canada’s team concluded the seven-day competition with a total of 12 medals, including two gold medals.
Leading the Canadian charge were Mary Jibb from Muskoka and Danielle Dorris from Moncton, each earning three medals, with both securing a gold medal. Cosgriffe, competing in the S10 classification, finished fifth in the 100 backstroke at the previous year’s Paralympic Games in Paris.
Expressing her determination, Cosgriffe stated, “I was so devastated after that swim, I knew that I never wanted to feel that way again.” She emphasized that her focus throughout the season had been on this specific race, and winning her first major international medal in this event was a significant achievement after facing challenges in recent years.
Despite aiming for gold, Cosgriffe settled for silver, narrowly missing out to Defne Kurt of Turkey. She acknowledged the tough competition and expressed her satisfaction with winning a medal, stating, “I just slightly fell short but I gave it my all and I’m just so happy to come out of this with a medal.”
Canada’s coach, Ryan Allen, commended the team’s performance, highlighting the exceptional swimming displayed by the athletes. He praised the newcomers who stepped up in the absence of veteran swimmers and emphasized the achievement of multiple first-time medallists at the world championships.
With 19 swimmers representing Canada among the 580 participants from 75 countries at the first world para swim championship in Asia, the team’s success reflected a culmination of hard work and dedication. The event showcased outstanding performances and personal bests, with athletes consistently reaching finals and pushing themselves to excel each day.