RIP - Jacques Martin, Canada mourns loss of Paralympic icon

Jim Armstrong, Jacques Martin and Chris Daw at 2009 Nationals

September 28, 1960 - April 19, 2012

It is with great sadness that Canada says goodbye to Paralympic icon Jacques Martin. A long time friend of mine that I knew for some 30 years. Jacques passed away suddenly of a heart attack yesterday (April 19 2012). Born in St-Denis-Brampton, Que., Jacques competed in six Paralympic Games between 1984 and 2004. He officially retired from athletics in 2010. In 2008 he took up wheelchair curling and was a member of Team Lessard for a few years before retiring in 2011.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jacques Martin” said Martin Goulet, Chief High Performance Officer. “His passion, dedication and contagious energy always made for a positive and motivating environment, our thoughts and prayers are with the Martin family and entire para-athletics community.”

A versatile athlete, Martin excelled in throwing events, especially so in the discus, shot put and javelin. Martin is a four time Paralympic Games gold medallist (1984, 1988, 1992 and 1996), silver medallist at the 2006 Commonwealth Games and gold medalist at the 2005 IAAF World Championships in the demonstration javelin. He also held world records in the F55 classification shot put and javelin. Keep up the party Jacques.

Our sincere condlonces to the Martin family.

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